Did you know May is National Walking month?
1 to 31 May is classed as National Walking month which aims to encourage people to walk more. Walking is suitable for any age group and will help you improve physically. You can be at any fitness level to walk and you don’t necessarily need any special exercise equipment. Walking will also help you improve mentally and is known to help with depression.
According to the NHS, walking has the following benefits:
- reduce your blood pressure
- manage your weight
- improve energy
- reduce stress
- improve sleep
and can help with the following conditions:
- stroke
- asthma
- type 2 diabetes
- heart disease
- obesity
- cancer
- COPD
- arthritis
Taking a brisk walk (as if you’re late for an appointment) for just 30 minutes a day, at least 5 days per week, can help you feel good.
If you are older, then walking will help your mobility, strengthen your lower body and help decrease the risk of you falling.
The NHS recommends that you start with short walks, for instance 3 times a day walking for 10 minutes or twice a day walking for 15 minutes. After which you can start to increase both the walking rate and distance. Just make sure you wear a sensible and supportive pair of shoes!
How can I increase my steps?
- Take a walk to the shop or the park instead of taking the car.
- Increase your walk to your destination by parking further away if you have to use the car or, if catching a bus, get off at an earlier stop.
- Use the stairs instead of a lift.Arrange to meet friends or family for a walk.
- Join a walking group. Click here for the link to Gloucestershire Walking Group We are lucky to live in such a beautiful county!
So why not use National Walking Month the reason to increase your daily steps and improve your mental and physical health.
So why not use National Walking Month the reason to increase your daily steps and improve your mental and physical health?
Caremark Cheltenham, Tewkesbury, Gloucester and Stroud will be happy to talk through the benefits of walking with you and also keep you company on a walk. We can help with a range of health conditions. Find out more here.