It’s tough to argue against easy exercise—especially something most of us already do on a daily basis.

We’re talking walking, of course.

INstride turned to Jim Mount to offer tips on how to tack on even more steps to an everyday activity. And to have fun while doing it.

Mount, of the Bedford Hiking Club, fits the fitness test to help others get started with a walking program.

He’s been calorie-reducing, heart rate-raising on his two feet every day, and has for years and years with his wife, Rowena, and friends. Only Indiana ice storms or a bout of sickness will sideline him from the sidewalks and sidepaths that help keep him in shape.

“You just feel better,” Mount said of his walking habit. “If you don’t walk for a while you can feel it; you rest better when you get some exercise.”

FIVE STEPS TO STEPPING IT UP

1. Get good shoes. Buying—or pulling out of the back of the closet—a decent pair of appropriate shoes is important. It’s also the only necessary investment or equipment. Mount suggests a shoe that doesn’t bend easily.

2. Dress for the weather. Layer during the colder months or those cool mornings/nights. Synthetic wear will help keep you dry and keep the sweat away.

3. It’s for everyone. Mount, 72, is a no-excuses kind of guy when it comes to talking “Bad knees, no time, etc.—sometimes you have to make time and it’s about the cheapest thing you can do.”

4. Grab a buddy—or some headphones.

The Mounts enjoy the comaraderie of walking with friends and neighbors. If you prefer or find yourself alone, turn to technology to provide some musical accompaniment. Low on batteries? Let the sounds of rural or urban life keep you going.

5. Start movin’. Start slow with a walk around the block or your building at work and then build on the distance, pick up the pace or raise the elevation.

“Just go get started, just start trying,” Mount said.

You heard the man. Go.

ABOUT THE CLUB

The Bedford Hiking Club meets every Monday at about 5 p.m. The route varies and each member has a chance to pick the path. About 40 people belong, mostly from Bedford but also coming from Mitchell and Owensburg.

BHC is a member of American Volkssport Association, which promises: “meet friends and walk scenic trails at your own pace for fun, fitness, and friendship.”

The Mounts’ involvement with Volkswalk or People’s Walk has taken them to all 50 states—seeing the sights all by foot (with the help of airplane or car to get there).

Some of his favorites?

The Garden of the Gods in Colorado—wand one much closer to home, Spring Mill State Park. In fact, the Bedford Hiking Club sponsors one of its annual walks at Spring Mill.

The state organization also hosts several walks in other state parks and locales.

“It’s just fellowship and I enjoy the walking. I enjoy hiking, and it’s great exercise and I think it keeps you fit. I know it keeps you fit.”

For more on the group, e-mail rowena1231@comcast.net. Annual membership is $5.