Knoxville News Sentinel Editorial - Tennesseans can walk away from obesity

In an editorial Friday, the Knoxville News Sentinel noted that healthy lifestyles are not inherited, and that Tennessee ranks second in the nation (tied with Alabama) for obesity rates. A new free program by the Knoxville Track Club seeks to get people walking rather than running, meeting every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 6:30 PM at Cherokee Blvd. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee is also encouraging school walking programs.


We have mentioned Tennessee's obesity rate previously when the report first came out. Walking is an excellent way to get around for short distances. There are great ways to work some additional steps into the day. For instance, even if one arrives at a place by car, one can park either farther from the entrance, or park at the first available space. Studies show that parking at the first available space actually saves time versus circling and looking for a close-in spot. When shopping at spread-out developments (e.g. Turkey Creek in Knoxville and Farragut), one can park at one store, shop there, and take advantage of the nice sidewalks and walk to other stores one wishes to visit. Not only does one get some walking in, but one reduces air pollution and wear and tear on the car. (Much car pollution comes from the starting of the engine, and engine starts are what wear engines out.)