Walking is low impact and easier on the joints than running. It is safe
– with a doctor’s okay – for people with orthopedic
ailments, heart conditions, and those who are more than 20% overweight.
The most recent provider to join Catawba Valley Cardiology, Jeff Neal,
DO, PharmD joined the practice in July 2014. Realizing that he was now
embedded in traditional Southern culture, he saw an opportunity to launch
a program to help promote walking that has its roots in his previous hometown
of Columbus, OH.
On April 16, 2015 at 7:30am, Dr. Neal will introduce Walk With a Doc at
the CVMC Fitness Plus walking track located in front of the hospital at
810 Fairgrove Church Road SE in Hickory.
“Walk with a Doc is a great program that I’m excited to champion,”
said Dr. Neal. “Since its beginning in 2005, Walk with a Doc has
expanded throughout the country. What’s great is that you don’t
need any special gear and there are no special rules. Everyone walks at
their own pace and gets an opportunity to have questions answered by local
physicians.”
According to the American Heart Association, walking has the lowest dropout
rate of any physical activity. Think it doesn’t do any good? Think
again. Walking for as little as 30 minutes a day can have the following
health benefits:
- Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease
- Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity
- Enhance mental well-being
- Improve blood lipid profile
- Reduce the risk of osteoporosis
- Reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer
- Reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes
When: Offered on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 7:30-8:30 AM
Lead Physician: Dr. Jeff Neal, Catawba Valley Cardiology
For More Information: CallSharon Smith, CVMC Health First Center at 828.485.2300
What better way to start a commitment to fitness than on your feet making
strides alongside a doctor to help your heart and improve your general
health to live longer!