The World Health Organisation describes it as:-

“A state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity”

Regular physical activity helps to maintain Health

One of the best ways of being physically active is to WALK

• Most people can join in
• There is no need for special equipment
• There is only a low level of impact upon the body and joints
• Age is not a limiter
• It is free, only need comfortable footwear
• The pace can be varied
• Easy to increase the amount done
• Benefits can be quickly seen
• There are many health benefits
• It is fun and helps mental well being

From these benefits it can be seen that walking goes a long way to contribute to people improving their health.

Did you know?

That, 80% of adult in the UK believe activity is “good for you”

And

That, 80% of adults in the UK think that they are ‘fit’

But

The majority of adults incorrectly believe that they do enough exercise to benefit their health.

Walking will help you!

Any questions please contact the Healthy Walking Manager via the Public Forum or Contact pages

Health Benefits of Walking

Interesting Fact:

A person weighing 62kg (just under 10st) would burn 12 calories per minute if they were running a mile in 9 minutes = 108 calories total

The same person would burn 5 calories per minute if they were walking a mile in 20 minutes = 100 calories total

The moral of the story, you do not have to run to burn off calories! Walking is just as good!

Benefits of walking at any pace

• Helps with mental well being
• Help reduce anxiety & depression in depressed patients
• Prevents anxiety & depression in non-clinical patients
• Helps prevent Diabetes (Type II)
• Increases ‘good’ cholesterol
• Benefits the immune system
• Can reduce bowel cancer by up to 40%
• Reduces the risk factors for falls in the elderly
• Can prevent development of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis in certain groups
• Improves muscle strength

• Improves Heart & Lung Function
• Reduces blood pressure

What this means in practical terms

• Regular walking can halve the risk of coronary heart disease, particularly for men who walk briskly
• Walking 2 miles a day tree times a week can reduce weight by 14 pounds in 3 to 4 months
• Regular walking strengthens bones and therefore reduces the risk of osteoporosis and associated fractures
• Early death can be halved in retired men who walk more than 2 miles every day
• Regular walking has been associated with increased confidence stamina and energy levels
• Walking on a regular basis can promote neighbourliness and social interaction, which helps reduce loneliness and increases the feeling of independence.

...Go on, take a walk!

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