Get in shape, shop with Walk the Villages
The mission of the Walk the Villages program is to encourage walking for health and wellness, while promoting intercommunity visitation and access to neighborhoods and businesses.

It is a great way to learn more about your own community as well as the ones surrounding your neighborhood.

The program, which was instituted by state Sen. Mary Lou Rath, encourages people to live healthier. Studies show walking is a great way to do so.

There are several benefits for those who enjoy a brisk walk on a hot summer day. For instance, studies show walkers live longer and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Walking also can be a tool to prevent weight gain, which can result in weight loss. It also helps prevent osteoporosis, which is a weakening of the bones, resulting in fractures.

Not only does walking help physically, it also improves brain power and your mood. The National Council of Aging found that walking 45 minutes per day increases the thinking skills of people 60 and older. Also, most people who walk regularly notice a marked improvement in mood, because they are meeting new people and spending time with their friends.

There are paths in Kenmore, Akron, Batavia, Clarence, LeRoy and Williamsville. The walk began June 1 and continues through Oct. 1, with local business sponsors supporting prizes and discount capabilities.

Participants will receive a village coupon book at each destination, and as they visit the local establishments they can have them stamped. Once four merchants have stamped the book, the walker can turn it in to one of the drop-off points and receive rewards.

Grand prize eligibility is offered to those who have walked all six villages and have each of their booklets stamped.

Businesses which aren't involved this season should think about joining in 2008. It is a great way to increase pedestrian traffic and profits.

Each village has different paths with various starting and finishing points, so pedestrians can walk that village several times during the summer. The trails highlight different businesses and supports a healthy lifestyle.

For those who may not be in tip-top condition, smaller-scaled trails may be the way to start. However, for those who are avid walkers or exercisers can start on a longer path, which will highlight historic landmarks and neighborhood businesses. Restaurants participate too, so it's a great way to eat delicious food, then walk off the extra calories.

Visit www.walkthevillages.com to find locations that offer tour books.