Plogging and Plalking to Boost Health & Clean Up Your Community
Exercise is an important part of diabetes management. Physical activity can help your body's insulin work better, increase metabolism, help to lose or maintain weight, provide energy, decrease stress, and it provides other health benefits.
Grab a Trash Bag and Try Plogging or Plalking
Plogging is a fitness craze originating from Sweden that combines jogging with the Swedish term “plocka upp,” meaning “to pick up. ” In this context, it refers to the act of picking up litter. The concept has spread throughout Europe and made its way to the United States, with variations including “planking,” which involves walking while picking up trash, and “plinking,” which is trash cleanup while biking.
These activities will allow you to clean your neighborhood and increase your physical activity at the same time! Squatting and bending to pick up litter as you walk burns more calories than simply walking. Don’t forget to wear gloves!
Change Routes and Work Different Muscle Groups
Walking uphill targets muscle groups that aren't engaged while walking on a flat path. Incorporate side steps or walking backwards at times to help improve balance and strength. Switching from a concrete road to a sandy beach can also be beneficial in working lesser-used muscle groups. Changing up routes will keep you motivated, offer new views, and prevent boredom in your walking routine.
Several Massachusetts communities have local plogging & plalking groups.
