Jackson College has partnered with Henry Ford Jackson Hospital to offer Jackson College students and employees medical care evaluation and treatment from the clinic’s caring staff. A licensed nurse practitioner and technical staff will be in the office to see patients, make diagnosis and assessment, prescribe medications or make referrals. |
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HEALTH CLINIC HOURS
Monday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Tuesday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (nurse appts only)
Wednesday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Thursday: 8 a.m. - 12 noon
Friday: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. (virtual care only)
Call 517.990.1374 to make an appointment. |
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Walking is a simple and effective form of physical activity. Walking is easily accessible; it is low impact, appropriate for all age groups and is free (Hancock, 2012). Walking also has low rates of injury (Buchner, 2008). It also has the lowest dropout rate and is one of the easiest exercises that you can do (American Heart Association (AHA), 2024). Overall, walking is a simple health behavior that can reduce rates of chronic disease and decrease health care costs. |
Research has shown that the benefits of walking at a moderate pace for 30 minutes nearly everyday can help you: |
| • | | Improve circulation |
| • | | Strengthen the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease |
| • | | Improve blood pressure |
| • | | Improve blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes |
| • | | Improve cholesterol levels |
| • | | Improve balance and coordination, tones and strengthens muscles |
| • | | Strengthen your bones, improves bone density, enhances joint health |
| • | | Maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity |
| • | | Reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer |
| • | | Reduce the risk of osteoporosis |
| • | | Boost immune system (AHA, 2024) |
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While walking boosts a number of physical benefits, it also can give the brain a mental boost. Here are some examples of the emotional benefits of walking: |
| • | | Lowers the risk of Alzheimer's disease and slows mental decline |
| • | | Improves sleep |
| • | | Lightens mood |
| • | | Serves as a form of meditation (Buchner, 2008). |
| • | | Stress reduction |
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Get started by planning out a routine: |
| • | | Get the right gear: Wear good shoes with proper support. If walking outside when it’s dark, wear bright colors or something reflective. |
| • | | Pick a location: Plot out a course outside that avoids roads or sidewalks that are cracked or have potholes. Or, set up a workout routine on an indoor treadmill. |
| • | | Warm up and cool down: Always remember to walk slowly to warm up the muscles for the first 5 to 10 minutes of your walk. Repeat at the end of the walk to cool down. Also, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. |
| • | | Remember to stretch when done. |
| • | | Set realistic goals: Don’t try to start walking two hours a day to start. Try starting with a 10-minute walk and then build up. |
| • | | Track your progress: Record how long or how far you walk on a regular basis and then try to walk further next time. Wear a pedometer to track your steps. |
| • | | Stay motivated: Change up your routine from time to time to keep things interesting. Find a walking buddy or walk your dog, and don’t feel bad if you miss a day or two, just pick back up when you feel ready for it (Hancock, 2012). |
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Walking not only has physical and mental benefits but social benefits as well. Walking can be a fun social activity that provides opportunity to connect with family and friends. Walking is free and the cumulative benefits can contribute to a better quality of life.
Take the step today, get out and use the Jets walking trail. |
| • | | American Heart Association (AHA) (2024). Why is walking the most popular form of exercise? Retrieved June 20, 2024. |
| • | | Buchner, L. (2008). The importance of walking to public health. Medicine and Science in sports and Exercise volume 49, issue 7, page 512-518 |
| • | | Hancock, C. (2012). Collaborating for health: the benefits of regular walking for health, well-being and environment. Retrieved April 15, 2014. |
| • | | Lowry, R., Galuska, D., Fulton, J., Wechsler, H., Kann, L., & Collins, J. (2000). Physical activity, food choice, and weight management goals and practices among U.S. college students. American Journal of Preventative Medicine Volume 18, Issue 1 pages 18-27 |
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