What if walking is one of the most powerful prescriptions your doctor is not writing?

I’m joined by foot and gait expert Dr. Courtney Conley to talk about why walking may be one of the most underrated tools for healthy aging. We break down the step count sweet spot, why post-meal walks matter, when to add intensity with speed or weighted vests, and why gait speed can reveal more than you might think. We also get into the overlooked connection between aging, menopause, foot strength, balance, and fall prevention so you can stay strong from the ground up.

(00:08) Why Dr. Courtney Conley believes walking should be on every doctor’s prescription pad.

(01:13) How daily walking differs from strength training and why consistency matters so much.

(02:06) What your current step count reveals and why even 500 extra steps can make a meaningful difference.

(02:31) Why the real walking sweet spot may be 7,000 to 9,000 steps instead of 10,000.

(03:54) How too much walking can crowd out strength training and why balance matters.

(04:45) Why walking 10 to 30 minutes after meals can support healthier blood sugar.

(06:22) How gait speed may act like a sixth vital sign for aging, strength, balance, and brain health.

(09:43) Why foot strength and sensory awareness decline after 50 and how that can increase fall risk.

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/KkS5sBYAAlE?si=-lFSFwh5e5g65u6o

Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/gaithappens

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