Holmdel Walking Enthusiasts Enjoy the Better Weather

With this year’s late-arriving warm temperatures, Holmdel residents are more than eager to be outside. Many head to local parks. Holmdel’s Walking Enthusiasts group can be found making their own tracks amidst the children on swings and the runners on the trails at Holmdel Park. 

The Walking Enthusiasts are a part of the Holmdel Half-Century Club which offers social programs to the seniors in town.  Those over 50 years of age can take advantage of cooking classes, trips to Broadway shows or meet weekly at the Senior Drop-In.  They can also participate in groups like the Walking Enthusiasts.

For the last two years, this group of active senior citizens has been meetin each Wednesday to walk in Holmdel Park from 2:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m.  The number of walkers varies each time the group meets, with an average of 10-15 walkers weekly. There are the regulars showing up each week and the occasional participant as well. All are welcome.

 Members of the Keyport Senior Citizen group join the Walking Enthusiasts at times and it is common for individual walkers to bring a friend or family member along. At times, the group is joined by a special guest like Emma, a Long Haired Dachshund and companion of Ed Knoblauch, who joined the walkers this week.

The club meets during the spring and fall months only.  According to the group’s coordinator, Tony Saliba, the winter month’s weather can create unsafe walking conditions and the heat of the summer makes it both unpleasant and unhealthy for the members.

The group is open to all level walkers. After meeting in the parking lot, the more ambitious may walk the hill to the upper part of the park while others stay on more level terrain and walk around the lake setting.  Walkers desiring a more leisurely pace are encouraged to still attend and take breaks as needed.

 “Walking is important for senior citizens,” stresses Saliba. “It is a complete exercise. You must walk to prevent atrophy of the mind and body.”  Saliba goes on to encourage seniors to walk even if they can’t attend the group.  They should walk near their homes; even around their apartments is helpful.

“Holmdel Park is the most beautiful place to walk.” says Saliba, pointing out the newly bloomed trees around the lake.  The group takes in the nature on its path; pausing to view turtles perched on tree stumps.  “When walking here, you don’t think about the problems of the day.” 

Exercise and the opportunity to be outdoors are not all that brings these lively seniors out.  “It is good company and good exercise,” says walker Pat McEnroe.  While moving around the park, members engage in friendly chatter.  The weekly walk gives them a chance to catch up with friends or meet someone new. 

For more information about the Walking Enthusiasts or any of the Holmdel Half-Century Club programs, visit the Holmdel Parks and Recreation Department website: www.holmdeltownship-nj.com or call 732-946-2820 x1225.