Walk With Ease is a structured walking program designed to help individuals, particularly those with arthritis or other joint-related issues, to improve their mobility and reduce pain. Developed by the Arthritis Foundation, this program focuses on three key components: walking, stretching, and strengthening exercises. Participants receive guidance on proper walking techniques, gradually increasing their walking time and intensity to build endurance.
Walk With Ease promotes regular physical activity, which can enhance joint function, reduce stiffness, and alleviate discomfort. It can be tailored to various fitness levels and can be done individually or in groups. This program aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and enjoy the benefits of a more active lifestyle while managing the challenges of arthritis or joint pain.
- Target audience: Walk With Ease was specifically developed for adults with arthritis who want to be more physically active. The program is also appropriate for people without arthritis, particularly those with diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions, who want to get more active. The only pre-requisite is the ability to be on your feet for at least 10 minutes without increased pain.
- Health outcomes: Studies by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging of the University of North Carolina show that Walk With Ease is proven to:
- Reduce the pain and discomfort of arthritis
- Increase balance, strength and walking pace
- Build confidence in your ability to be physically active
- Improve overall health
- Delivered by: The program may be administered self-directed or with a trained leader. If you're using a trained leader, they may include a lay leader/facilitator, fitness instructor, physical therapist or certified fitness instructor.
- Program type: There are three program formats:
- Group – All 18 sessions are led by an in-person, Arthritis Foundation-certified leader. Group sessions include socialization time, pre-walk informational lecturettes, warm up and cool downs and a walking period.
- Self-Directed – An individual uses the Walk With Ease Guidebook to complete the six-week program on his/her own. Use the registration portal to complete a brief baseline survey and receive a free copy of the Guidebook.
- Self-Directed Enhanced – A group of individuals begin and end the six-week program at the same time. A designated leader coordinates communication to ensure participants are organized and motivated to complete program.
- Length: 6 weeks, 3 1-hour sessions each week (a total of 18 sessions)
- Training: Online, on-demand
- Professional required: Yes, current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is required; first aid certification is strongly recommended. Although not required as a pre-requisite, first aid certification is strongly recommended because of the danger of falls or other injuries, especially when the program is conducted outdoors. Professional liability insurance coverage with an aggregate/single occurrence limit not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) for personal injury or property damage, unless covered by host facility’s comprehensive or professional liability insurance policy. Other desirable abilities include: Empathy toward people with arthritis and related diseases, gained through personal or professional experience. Interest in working with groups of people with arthritis and related diseases.
- Accessibility adaptations available: Yes. Participants may use mobility devices including canes, walkers or trekking poles to complete the walking segment. In addition, all strengthening exercise may be completed in the standing or seat position.
- Cultural adaptations available: Camine Con Gusto, Spanish-language participant book is available any may be used for the self-directed program.
- Available in languages other than English: Spanish
- Topic(s):
- Physical Activity
- Chronic Disease
- Pain Management
- Arthritis
- Additional Resources:
