National Start Walking Day!
Wednesday 16 April 2008
Heart Disease is the number one killer in the US and physical inactivity doubles the risk of heart disease and stroke. Start walking to reduce your risk!
Join in on the American Heart Association’s National Start Walking Day, Wednesday, April 16th. On this special day… you can show your support by wearing your tennis shoes to work.
Then take a 30 minute walk during the day, and make your pledge to live a longer, healthier life.
So, spread the word, and start walking! By joining others across the county… we’ll be part of the solution in the fight against heart disease.
For more information on National START! Walking Day, visit the American Heart Association.
Why Walking?
Walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity, and is the simplest positive change individuals can make to effectively improve their heart health. Research has shown that the benefits of walking and moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes total on most or every day of the week can help you:
* Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease
* Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels
* 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
Did you know that for every hour of regular, vigorous exercise we do -- like brisk walking -- we can live two hours longer?