To the Editor of The San Pedro Sun:
The lack of walking has become a major health issue throughout the world. We San Pedranos are no exemption. Just a few years ago, we all used to walk much more. Nowadays everybody seems to drive and very little walking is involved in our daily lives.
Health Organizations and doctors throughout the world recommend that every person should walk at least 30 minutes a day. The benefits are:
• Reduce overweight and body fat
• Improve muscle strength, trim of waist line, better physical appearance and overall beauty
• Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease
• Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels
• Improve blood lipid profile
• Maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity
• Enhance mental well being
• Reduce the risk of osteoporosis
• Reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer
• Reduce the risk of non-insulin dependent (type 2) diabetes
A partial closure of San Pedro for all traffic but bicycles –at least during certain hours– would not only show an improved tourist friendliness within San Pedro town, increase sales in shops and restaurants dedicated for tourists, provide safe passage for school children, residents and tourists but also improved the visual appearance of San Pedro as a worthwhile travel destination with Central American charm.
Remember: We do have plenty of parking on Back Street at the soccer field. It’s just a few minutes to walk from one end of San Pedro to the other. Some exercise will improve our health, will keep our weight down and will let us live longer, healthier and happier.
Dr. Giovanni Solorzano
Medical Doctor
