Walking A Mile On the Colorado Riverfront Trail is Good For Your Health

Walking is a great way to exercise, especially with the Colorado Riverfront Trail system around the Grand Valley. But, many people think they don't have time except on their days off. Actually, walking a mile probably takes less time than you think.

Studies indicate the average person walks about 3.1 miles per hour, which means a one-mile walk takes less than 20 minutes. Even if you walk slower, that mile would likely only take 25-30 minutes.

Some people are wearing those little electronic devices to measure the number of steps they take each day. How does that translate into the number of miles walked? Data shows the average person's stride is approximately 2.5 feet. So, each mile equals about 2,000 steps. Your own stride may vary, but this is a good benchmark.

If you are looking to lose weight, walking isn't the quickest way, but combined with a good diet and overall exercise plan, it can certainly help. A mile long walk burns 140-160 calories. A pound of fat is the equivalent of 3,500 calories. So, if you walked one mile every day, you'd burn a pound of fat in about 23 days.

With easy access to many sections, a walk down any part of the Riverfront Trail is a great way to experience the incredible sights and sounds nature has to offer right outside our back door. So, that walk is good for both the body and the mind.