St. Francis has joined with
other parishes in a healthy living activity in preparation for Christmas
called 'Walk to Bethlehem.' During the time between now and December
25th, we are challenged to use fitness activities each week converted
to miles and make the 6032 mile trek to Christ's birthplace. We
can all benefit! All activities from simple walking to complex sports,
gardening, meditation and football count and can be converted. Forms
are available on this webpage (see below) and in our Parish Hall.
These forms will help you keep up with your activities and to accurately
convert your activity to miles. The forms should be submitted weekly
each Sunday to Sharon Sarvey or Liz Howard. They will compile the
miles and move our Donkey on his way. Look for our progress on this
web page and on the Tower in the Parish Hall. If you have questions
e-mail
the Parish office and Sharon or Liz will get back with you
It is important to note that all forms of
physical activity can count toward your accumlated miles. Although
the program is called "Walk to Bethlehem" all forms of
physical activities count as miles. Swimming, biking, walking, running,
yoga, aerobic exercise, and using a pedometer to log our steps count
towards the goal! For non-walking activities such as aerobics and
yoga, use the conversion charts below.
Here are some helpful tips for the journey:
If you have not exercised recently, check with your physician
before getting started.
Wear good supportive shoes with good grip on the bottom and
arch support.
Walk in the cool of the day (early morning or late evening)
during the warm months.
Walk in the warmer hours in the fall to avoid the cooler temperatures
and darkness.
Wear bright reflective clothing if walking early or late in
the day.
Carry a cell phone for emergencies.
Hydrate before and after exercise.
Wear sunscreen on exposed areas.
Dress appropriately, layers in cooler weather, fabrics that
wick sweat away in the heat of summer.
Warm up your muscles BEFORE stretching (cold muscles are strained
when stretched before warm-up).
Know your target heart rate (a chart will be provided for you).
***Some medications (especially blood pressure medications) may
prevent you from reaching your target heart rate. If you have questions
or concerns about this check with your physician.
