Walk to Work Week

26th March 2010

Website piece

Walk your way to a healthier lifestyle this national Walk to Work Week

With the latest statistics showing that 61% of us are currently overweight or obese and with Government figures showing that we jump in the car for over a fifth of journeys shorter than one mile, what better motivation to walk your way to a healthier lifestyle during national Walk to Work Week (26-30 April 2010).

National charity Living Streets run the Walking Works Campaign, which is funded by the Big Lottery Fund, to highlight the role that walking can play in bringing some much-needed activity into our daily lives.

A recent study by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy found that a fifth of people exercise once a month or less, with many stating that they were too busy at work to fit exercise into their daily routine. Despite this, over a half (53%) of people said they would take part in exercise more regularly if they could fit it into their daily routine and if it was cheap. Luckily, Living Streets has the answer! By walking for just 30 minutes a day during the working week, whether that’s on the way to, from or during work, means meeting the governments recommended level of daily activity to transform your health.

Walk to Work Week is an annual reminder that walking all or part of the commute is fun, green and healthy and can be slotted in to even the busiest lives. In addition to the known health benefits, regular exercise such as walking is known to boost performance at work and counter lethargy, stress and depression.

Tony Armstrong, Chief Executive of Living Streets said:

“Being active doesn’t have to mean costly gym sessions, or marathon running attempts - there is a free and easy way to work more exercise into your daily routine, and it is often overlooked - give yourself a daily dose of walking.

“The benefits of walking more are huge and not only for your health, but to give time to plan for the day ahead, or to unwind after it. It can be as simple as stepping outside for a lunchtime walk, or getting off the bus a few stops earlier on your way into the office. That time spent walking, whether on your own or with colleagues, is a chance to take a step back from your inbox, breaking up your day and improving your productivity once you return.

“We are urging everyone to give it a go during Walk to Work Week this year. We think you’ll be amazed at what a difference a short blast of fresh air can do for you, not just to improve your physical health, but for your mental wellbeing as well.”

Walk to Work Week also includes five fun walking challenges to motivate people to walk. Encourage your employer to take part or suggest some friendly competition to your colleagues. For more information visit www.walkingworks.org.uk