Health Walks Bring Community Together in Bowling Green, KY
Bowling Green, KY – Every month from May to October, residents of Bowling Green have a unique opportunity to improve their health and connect with others. The Graves Gilbert Clinic organizes an early morning Health Walk at Lost River Cave, creating a space for community members and healthcare providers to come together in a relaxed outdoor setting.
A Chance to Connect and Exercise
The Health Walks are designed not only for exercise but also for fostering relationships between providers and patients. Participants can enjoy the beauty of nature while prioritizing their health. For many, like resident Vicki LaRue, this event has become an essential part of their routine.
Vicki has joined almost every walk this year after a friend invited her along. “One of the main reasons I participate is looking at me, you wouldn’t be able to tell that I’ve had two heart attacks. So I do it to stay heart healthy,” she shares. LaRue emphasizes the importance of finding a walking partner who can provide support and encouragement. “Somebody that is willing to get up early in the morning or, you know, in the afternoon, but just find somebody to walk with you and that can encourage you along the way,” she explains.
Enjoying Nature
For LaRue, one of the joys of participating in the walks is the change of scenery. “In the summertime, you can see the flowers that are in bloom, plus, you see people, and sometimes you see some of the same faces as you’re walking,” she says, expressing her love for being outdoors. “I need the exercise. I need to get up off that couch and do something.”
Expert Guidance at the Walks
The Health Walks are also an opportunity to meet healthcare providers. Each month, a different doctor from the Graves Gilbert Clinic is featured, allowing participants to ask questions and engage in discussions. Recently, Dr. Matthew Rutter, a urologist, shared his insights on the importance of staying active.
“I think the Health Walk is a fantastic thing for the community. It’s being done elsewhere,” Dr. Rutter noted during a recent walk. He shared that his involvement is personal, citing a strong family history of cardiovascular disease and his own weight loss journey. “I was overweight several years ago. Over the last five years or so, I’ve lost 60 pounds and I started by walking. Then I’ve added resistance training, and then I’ve done a little bit more intense training, as well as diet,” he explained.
The Benefits Extend Beyond Individuals
Dr. Rutter believes the benefits of the walk extend beyond individual health. “You might meet somebody, you might see an old friend. This is a great way to get together with our community,” he said, highlighting the social aspect of the event. Being active is not just good for the heart; it also promotes overall well-being, including healthier muscles and joints.
Upcoming Walks
The Graves Gilbert Clinic organizes the Health Walk at least once a month, specifically on the last Wednesday of each month from May through October at Lost River Cave. Additionally, they host walks at the Bowling Green Ballpark. The next walk is scheduled for October 19 at the Bowling Green Ballpark, starting at 7:30 a.m.. The final walk of the year will take place at Lost River Cave on October 30, also at 7:30 a.m.
For those interested in participating in the upcoming Health Walks or seeking more information, resources are available online at the Graves Gilbert Clinic’s website.
