Having grown up in Colorado, four seasons is the norm. With the smell of lilacs, the sight of baby animals and the sound of birds, we finally spring free of cold, short winter days.
No wonder New Year’s resolutions flop: The dead of winter is hardly a time of renewed energy. But spring is, and we humans are ready to get out!
Staying physically active requires energy and motivation, both of which ebb and flow. Capitalize on the seasonal burst of energy to start a routine.
For more information
Learn about perceived exertion and physical activity: https://tinyurl.com/3p8tb3jc.
Thank you, Animas Museum, for historical information. Try this historical walking tour: https://www.animasmuseum.org/pdf/Third_Avenue_Walking_Tour.pdf.
Motivation comes from many sources, one of which is pleasure. Thus, an activity you deem fun is more likely to be sustained.
With fun in mind, I’m taking you on a walking tour. While the tour could be like a book, an adventure you live only in your mind, I hope you’ll take action and walk this journey as far as you are capable.
The beauty of walking is that you only need a pair of well-fitting shoes. With that, you can go anywhere. So lace up, grab a water bottle and find your way to the start.
It seems fitting to start at a location that once housed The Durango Herald office, that’s 135 E. Eighth Street (currently home of Bread). Did you know The Durango Herald (formerly The Record) was started three months after Durango was founded in September 1880? News to me, haha.
Head east on Eighth Street to historic Third Avenue. You should now have roughly 600 steps, but if you could step back in time, you’d see the “Boulevard,” and in the median, cows would be grazing, so do watch your step.
Because physical activity improves cognitive function, you’d quickly and wisely decide to invest in property. For a mere $200 to $2,000, you’d purchase a lot in downtown Durango.
Walk north along the “Boulevard” to admire the architecture, but hold a pace that feels like a 4 to 5 on the rate of perceived exertion scale (various scales exist).
On this scale, 1 is no exertion and 10 is maximum exertion. Low exertion is 3 to 4, moderate is 5 to 6 and high is 7 to 8. For sustainability, fluctuate between 3 and 8. And remember, this rating is your perception.
At the corner of Third Avenue and Ninth Street, go east to Sixth Avenue. Turn north, walking one block to the start of the Nature Trail leading up to Fort Lewis College.
Your pace may slow, but watch as perceived exertion goes up – hills do that.
If not before, you’ll certainly experience aerobic exercise now (perceived exertion 5 to 8), and your heart thanks you. This critical muscle works more efficiently with regular exercise.
Up the dirt trail you go, take the switchbacks (easier on knees), or the sky steps – you choose. Physically, you’ll be elevated 264 feet up to the rim of the mesa. Emotionally, you’ll be elevated by a surge of feelings.
No promises your emotions won’t include frustration or self-doubt; even the fittest of athletes experience this at times.
When doubt creeps in, stop. Shift your gaze from the trail to the scenery around you. What do you see? Can you find the “Boulevard,” Perkins Peak or the CSU Extension office at the Fairgrounds? What an achievement! Why stop now?
When ready, continue to the top. The view was amazing halfway – now it’s astounding.
What’s also astounding is that you just walked a mile and climbed 308 feet.
Upon your return, you’re welcomed back by the smell of fresh bread and locally brewed beer. Not the best source of protein, which is preferable after exercise, but …
Nicole Clark is director of La Plata County Extension Office. Reach her at nclark@lpcgov.org.
