In late July California Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA) President Tracy L. Basso, DPM, (l) and San Francisco/San Mateo Podiatric Medical Society President Robert Tangs, DPM, (r) met with San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom (c) to present the National APMA/Prevention Magazine Best Walking City Award to the City By the Bay.

The Best Walking City Award presentation recognized San Francisco’s outstanding walking attributes. The city ranked second out of 200 of the largest cities in the U.S. because of its high percentage walkers. Getting to work by foot is not uncommon for this city by the Bay with 9 per cent of residents walking and 2 per cent biking. The walking-conducive city touts 32 per cent of its residents walk for exercise and 35 per cent buy some type of athletic shoes.

In his presentation Dr. Basso noted “Walking is just about the best health bargain around. It's fun, easy to do, and absolutely free. Research supports the long-standing belief that taking just a few extra steps a day can improve the lives of all Americans.

”In fact, the cost of our not walking as a nation--and living a sedentary lifestyle--is staggering. Obesity and poor physical fitness are rapidly catching up to smoking as the leading causes of preventable death in the United States.

“It is the goal of the California Podiatric Medical Association to inspire all Californians to incorporate walking into their lives by making it a pleasure, not a chore. A walk can be an invigorating way to clear your head and ready yourself for the workday. It can also help increase productivity at work. And, at home, bond with your family over an after-dinner walk, or get out the stroller and go for a walk to the park.

The California Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA) is the state’s leading professional medical organization for foot and ankle specialists and represents more than 1000 California doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs). Since 1912 CPMA has served the people of California by promoting the science and art of podiatric medicine, protecting the public health, and elevating the standards of medical education.

CPMA, Committed to keeping Californians on their Feet – Healthy, Active and Productive!