Stroll or roll your way to better health

By Christine Kilfoil, Lowertown Community Association Wellness Committee

In the 1980s, the popular exercise mantra was “No pain, no gain.” The workouts were intense, the music was loud, and impact on knees and shins was high. We danced along to the Jane Fonda, Richard Simmons, and the “:20 Minute Workout” in our legwarmers and neon leotards. And while fitness trends will always come and go, we have come to understand the simple act of taking a stroll or a roll leads to improved physical and mental fitness.

Medical experts agree that walking or rolling is an easy way to improve fitness and prevent disease. Ottawa Public Health notes that being physically active offers benefits for all ages and abilities, such as increasing cardiovascular fitness, strength, and bone density. It can also help with lowering the risk of medical conditions, improving flexibility and balance, and improving mental health. 

Numerous studies have shown that getting out for a daily stroll or roll can lower anxiety and stress, and boost energy levels. It can also reduce social isolation and loneliness. These can be easy-to-do exercises that have so many benefits with little risk of injury.

Going on a stroll or roll connects you with others who may share a smile or nod with you. You can go with a walking buddy, or you may opt to join a group such as the Ottawa Voyageurs Walking Club. If you’re a dog owner or parent of children, you have ready-made companions.  

These are also great solitary activities that allow you time to be alone with your thoughts, decompress, and have a break from the business of daily life. You can enjoy the quiet, stop by the dock along the Rideau River in Bordeleau Park and listen to the waves slap onto the rocks and watch the ducks gliding on the water. 

In Lowertown, we are blessed with the opportunity to use the trail along Bordeleau Park. It is a unique experience that winds along the wonderful Rideau River. Although it is minutes from Parliament Hill and steps from busy King Edward Avenue, it’s tucked in the trees and has lots of green space. It’s quiet and peaceful, and an oasis of calm. You may have to share the trail with gaggles of Canadian geese from time to time, but it’s a wonderful place to wander in peace. 

Lowertown also has vibrant neighbourhoods. Every house in Lowertown looks different and has a story to tell. Your route can take you through the streets of the Wedge, over to Lowertown East, along Beausoleil or Coburg Streets. You can cross King Edward and go through St. Andrew or Bruyère Streets on the west side of Lowertown or wander the ByWard Market. I challenge you to find two houses that look the same in Lowertown. 

Strolling or rolling doesn’t feel like exercise, but it is. The great gift is that you set the pace that aligns with your age and abilities. You decide how far you want to go, when it’s time to pause and look at the river, talk to a neighbour or friend, or rest on a public bench. You may end your walk at a local coffee shop or continue to work or school. No matter your age or ability, many of us can take part in some way.