If you’re looking to get out and walk but concerned about having arthritis, the Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation in conjunction with the Friends of Beltzville and the Arthritis Foundation has a program for you.

Trained by the Arthritis Foundation, the leaders will help with strengthening, stretching, motivating and educating. Five Friends of Beltzville members have been through an intensive training to lead the class. Topics include improving, balance, proper foot gear and walking safely.

All participants receive an Arthritis Foundation guide to walking, which includes a logbook, self testing, walking diaries, and a contract with yourself. Resources to keep you walking and active are also included. Leader Diane Szwajkowski said, “It’s very well laid out and thorough. After walking, we come back for classroom time.”

Each class begins with stretching and warm-ups. All walks are done at Beltzville State Park in the parking lot, as it is level ground.

Walks initially begin with a 10 minute time frame, then go up to 30 minutes, while each participant can do what they are able to do.

Szwajowski said, ‘It’s great so people don’t have to walk alone, can get a sense of community, safety and companionship. They can build relationships and can become walking partners.”

A potluck is held for everyone at the end of the program.

Past participants have noted that not only is the program fun, but also it holds them accountable and there are nice people and nice instructors.

An AARP grant was received recently that will provide 12 sets of trekking poles as loaners that could be used for the program. Those with balance issues will be supported throughout the program.

There is a maximum of 12 new walkers for each 6-week session. As there have been many return participants, up to 10 returning walkers are allowed.

The program begins Sept. 8 and runs through Oct. 17, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning.

For more information, contact the park office at 610-377-0035 and leave a message for Diane Szwajkowski or go to the Friends of Beltzville Facebook page

To register go to: bit.ly/walk-with-ease-fall25