@bulgebattler One thing about the 12 week program is that Mayo says to do what is comfortable. It gives people who are just starting to exercise the opportunity to go at their own pace. I was so anti-exercise when I started, but the first day, was 5 minutes of warm up (slow walking), then 5 minutes of a little faster walking, and finished with five minutes of slow cool down walking. Each week the time increased. But, if I felt I could only do 15 minutes, that got me moving at least. I don't know about your sciatic pain. Could it possibly help to move more? Can you check so that you will know. Sometimes Physical Therapy wants people to move when there is a situation that would benefit from it. Walking is the most gentle way to get exercise---less pressure and strain on the joints. If you want a higher lift and could march, that sounds more painful than walking. I am not an exercise guru, so I just have to try what I can. I added going up and down stairs to my routine since I live in a two story house. My next addition will be Power Walking with Leslie Sansone tapes. She has a walking program that includes arm strengthening and different moves from treadmill walking. I think Mayo wanted to make the point to diabetics that exercising is beneficial to blood numbers. I know for D2 people doctors say diet and exercise and meds if you have to take them. Don't hurt yourself. Check with your doctor and see if a walking program would be beneficial.
I hope it will be.
Carol