Northwest Arena General Manager Craig Hinderleider discusses the upcoming Walk With Ease Program with Karen, a frequent walker at the arena. The Northwest Arena is a co-sponsor of this free, six-week walking program. Submitted photo

The Jamestown area’s first Walk With Ease program is set to begin today at the Northwest Arena, 319 W. Third St., Jamestown.

Walk With Ease is designed for people with arthritis, older adults over the age of 50 or anyone wanting to benefit from an introductory exercise program that is designed to build stamina and improve cardiovascular fitness.

Studies by the Institute on Aging at the University of North Carolina and the Thurston Arthritis Research Center have shown that participants who complete the Walk With Ease program increased their balance and strength, increased levels of physical activity and improved overall health.

The program, led by two certified instructors, meets for one hour three times a week for six weeks. The Northwest Arena Walk With Ease will be held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9-10 a.m. starting today.

“We are so excited to be offering this program at the Northwest Arena,” said Judy Blitz, Walk With Ease instructor and a health educator with the county Office for the Aging. “With a cushioned, level track, the Arena offers a safe and comfortable location for people interested in walking as a way to improve health and fitness.”

The Walk With Ease program is sponsored by the Northwest Arena, Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services, Chautauqua County Parks Department and the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging. The program is free, but pre-registration is required.

To register, or for more information about Walk With Ease, call Lisa Schmidtfrerick- Miller at the Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services at 753-4795 or email activecounty@co.chautauqua.ny.us.