Today is National Walking Day!

Today is National Walking Day!

Today, thousands of people across the United States are taking a stand for their health by participating in National Walking Day.

All you need to do to be a part of this movement is to get out from behind that desk, off that couch, or take a break for a 30 minute walk.

With an initiative from the American Heart Association, we should know that getting in a quick 30-minute walk in can do amazing things for your heart health.

Did you know that walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity?  Why not extend something you do every day anyway?

It's the simplest positive change you can make to effectively improve your heart health. Research has shown that walking for at least 30 minutes a day can help you:

• Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease
• Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels
• Improve blood lipid profile
• 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

There are so many reasons why we should get out and walk, and it's easy!  If the idea of a boring old walk doesn't interest you, grab a friend or co-worker for some conversation on the way.  Or hit a golf course (don't get the cart!) get a few swings in while you get your exercise in.  Get the kids involved to take a family walk around your neighborhood.  Maybe explore a few things around your house.  Take a walk on the Lakewalk!  It's a beautiful day to be down by the lake!

Do you walk?  Have any favorite trails or places you like to walk?