As I see patients in their 50s to 70s at the hospital, I realize daily how much a lack of exercise is the root of many health issues.

Conversely, those who walk or run regularly have noticeably better health, even at the same age.

San Jose offers a very good environment in this regard. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, most of the year is suitable for outdoor activities, and trails and parks are well distributed throughout the city. Let me summarize some walking and exercise locations that I personally use or recommend.

The Los Gatos Creek Trail is one of the most accessible and popular urban trails in San Jose. Starting at Almaden Lake Park and heading towards Campbell, this trail is well-paved, making it comfortable for jogging, walking, and biking. There is plenty of tree shade along the creek, allowing for a cool experience even in summer. You can choose a suitable distance for a round trip, making it accessible for both beginners and long-distance runners.

The Coyote Creek Trail is a multi-use trail that stretches from south to north in San Jose. Starting at Hellyer County Park and heading towards Berryessa, it features relatively flat terrain, making it great for light walking or running. The trail alternates between shaded areas and open grassy sections, providing scenic variety. It is also popular among cyclists for long rides.

Almaden Lake Park is a small lake park located in the southern part of San Jose. It has a loop trail that is great for walking around the lake, and the short distance makes it perfect for a light stroll. There is also a swimming pool nearby, allowing for a swim after your walk. This park is ideal for enjoying the waterfront scenery, especially for walks with children.

The trails at Almaden Quicksilver County Park are suitable for those looking for more intense exercise. They include trails that go uphill, which are effective for improving cardiovascular fitness. Each trail has its difficulty and distance marked, allowing you to choose a course that matches your fitness level. The views from the top of the hills on clear days add to the reward of exercising. However, it can get very hot in the summer afternoons, so it's best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

YMCA and fitness centers are well established throughout San Jose. The YMCA has several locations and offers a variety of programs, including swimming, gyms, yoga, and fitness classes. Swimming, in particular, is recommended for middle-aged and older adults as it puts less strain on the joints. Some in the Korean community also use affordable gyms like Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness. There are low-cost gyms available for around $10 to $25 a month, allowing for budget-friendly options.

There are also many events for those who enjoy running. Local running events like the San Jose Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon and San Jose 10K are held several times a year. Running events help with goal setting and motivation, and they provide opportunities to connect with the local running community. There are also beginner Couch to 5K (C25K) programs run by local groups.

As a healthcare professional, I want to emphasize that consistency is much more important than the type of exercise. The WHO and CDC recommend 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise (including brisk walking) per week. The good climate and well-established trail environment in San Jose provide excellent conditions to achieve this goal. Starting with walking and gradually increasing intensity is the most sustainable and health-promoting approach. I hope you make the most of the environment in this city.