Walk With Ease Program
ARTHRITIS HEALTH SNAPSHOT
ARTHRITIS
LIMITATIONS
Among people with arthritis, about 26 percent report activity limitations due to arthritis.
GENDER
INACTIVITY
In 2019, the state median prevalence of adults with arthritis who reported physical inactivity was 30%
Walk With Ease
Walk With Ease is a structured walking program offered by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), designed to help individuals, particularly those with arthritis or other joint-related issues, improve their mobility and reduce pain.
Developed by the Arthritis Foundation, this program focuses on three key components: walking, stretching and strengthening exercises and motivational strategies.
Participants receive guidance on proper walking techniques, gradually increasing their walking time and intensity to build endurance. It can be tailored to various fitness levels and can be done individually or in groups.
SPECIALLY DEVELOPED FOR
- Individuals with diabetes, heart disease or other chronic conditions who wish to improve their physical activity.
- Adults with arthritis who want to increase their physical activity.
- The only prerequisite is the ability to be on your feet for at least 10 minutes without increased pain.*
Experience Walk With Ease
While walking is the central activity, Walk With Ease is a multi-component, evidence-based program that aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and enjoy the benefits of a more active lifestyle while managing the challenges of arthritis or joint pain.
Studies by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging of the University of North Carolina show that “Walk With Ease” is proven to:
- Reduce the pain and discomfort of arthritis
- Increase balance, strength and walking pace
- Build confidence in your ability to be physically active
- Improve overall health
GET STARTED
The Walk With Ease program can be experienced in a group setting to get you moving safely toward better health.
Select a format that works best for you below:
IN-PERSON
Group sessions meet three times per week for 6 weeks (a total of 18 sessions).
Trained group exercise leaders begin each session with a pre-walk discussion covering a specified topic related to exercise and arthritis, followed by a 10- to 40-minute walk that includes a warm-up and a cool-down.
VIRTUAL
Online sessions also meet three times a week for one hour on non-consecutive weeks.
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