Today is National Start Walking Day!

08. Apr, 2009 Comments Off

Today, April 8th, is the American Heart Association’s National Start! Walking Day. The purpose of the Start! Walking Program is to encourage businesses to incorporate a walking program at the workplace for their employees, to promote health and fitness.

The concept is simple. Companies set up “walking routes” for their employees to use and reward those who use the routes for better health and those who go from a life without physical exercise to a healthier lifestyle by using the walking routes. The thought behind this movement is to get people healthier and feel better about themselves, obviously. But in addition to that, employees who are healthier are also more productive and the companies will undoubtedly save on healthcare costs. It’s a win-win situation!

Walking just 30 minutes a day can strengthen your heart. So put your sneakers on and get out there! Recognize all the benefits your amazing body can get from just a little TLC:

Benefits of walking

Alleviates back pain
Helps maintain weight
Helps to reduce stress
Improves muscle strength
Improves your mood and clears your mind
Lowers “bad” cholesterol (LDL)
Raises “good” cholesterol (HDL)
Lowers blood pressure
Reduces and/or manages your risk of Type 2 diabetes

Preparation to avoid injury

To avoid injury to your muscles and avoid getting blisters, take a few extra minutes to prepare yourself.

Always wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes and socks.
Be safe and let someone know where you are going and when you will be returning.
Cool down after a brisk walk by walking slowly to avoid injury.
Start out slow to avoid injury to your muscles.
Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing in layers.
Wear bright or reflective clothing so you are seen by on-coming motorists.

What is your walking routine for good health?

Image via stock.xchng.