ED BROWN, 61

Residence: Bedford

Occupation: Retired

Six days a week, Ed Brown drives from his home east of Bedford to the Star Stop gas station where he begins his brisk 4-mile walk. He walks on U.S. 50 to Tunnelton Road and back, going as fast as he can.

In July, he entered the Limestone 5K Run/Walk, his first 5K race. He completed it in 32:45. Brown talked to INstride about his fitness goals and how he stays motivated.

What wellness goal(s) have you been working toward? I just like doing it for health reasons. I want to make sure I don’t get diabetes because my mom had diabetes. I also do it so I can play basketball with the young guys on Fridays.

Is exercising regularly new for you? I’ve been walking since I turned 40, but when I retired I increased it to four miles a day. I try to walk every day but Sunday. I start between 7:30 and 7:45 a.m. It takes me about 45 minutes.

What prompted you to make a lifestyle change? I was up to about 210 pounds when I was working. I’d go home and sit down when I got off work. Once I retired, I got into a routine and started walking more often. I’m down to 187 now. I’m trying to get to 180.

Did you make any changes to your diet? I try not to eat too many fatty foods and I try to drink more water.

What made you enter the 5K? My daughter-in-law ran it and she encouraged me to do it. I was walking with a guy and I practically had to run to keep up with him. I felt really good that day. I’m planning to walk the Persimmon Festival 5K in September.

What struggles or challenges have you encountered? No real struggles. I’ve kept a regular schedule and I’m really motivated to do it. I find it’s easier to do it this way—cut down on fatty foods and calorie intake, exercise more and you can really get the weight down.

Who or what keeps you going? People who drive U.S. 50, they know me. They holler my name and blow the horn. That encourages me. And I just like walking the road.

How are you planning to stay on track to living healthier? Just by keeping motivated and keeping the will power. Walking clears the mind, you can work things out when you’re walking. You can work out a lot of problems or I can pray while I’m walking. I definitely feel better when I’m done. My head is clear, the body feels good and I’m ready to get my day started.

How has this experience changed you, mentally and physically? Mentally, I’m not stressed as much. Physically, I sleep better at night.

Did anyone have an impact on your decision to change? I’m doing it for the kids and grandkids. If (they) see me exercising, maybe it will motivate (them).

What advice would you give others seeking to achieve a similar goal? Get a routine set. I like to do it in the morning so I can get it out of the way. If I try to do it in the evening, something comes up and you make an excuse not to do it. That’s what makes it hard. If I do it bright and early, I’ve got it done.