Let's Go For A Walk

16th May 2015

Walking has so many benefits, let's go for a walk and discover the ways our lives can improve!

Only a third of adults get as much moderate exercise, such as walking, as they should.

Get those extra steps in today.

Check the Caithness.org Whats On section for local walks.

The Benefits of Walking
Did you know that over 50% of all car journeys in Scotland are less than two miles?

Walking is a fantastic way to get to work. It's free, easy, and a great way to reduce stress whilst controlling your weight. Making your commute on foot can be combined with walking for health and fitness, giving you more time to get on with other things.

Even if you don't live close to your place of work, walking a couple of miles as part of your commute could take you just 30 minutes, and would:

· improve your fitness

· reduce your stress levels

· boost your bank balance; and

· increase your productivity.

Generally, 30 minutes of brisk walking (fast enough for your heart to beat a bit faster) 5 days per week is enough to result in significant health benefits.

Why not see how many calories you could burn by walking to work once or twice a week?

Health Facts - Walking
Walking increases your energy, stamina and concentration levels. It also reduces stress and boosts your overall physical and mental well-being. Regular walking helps prevent osteoporosis, and reduces your risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Did you know? 61% of adults and 27% of children in Scotland do not meet recommended levels of physical activity (30 minutes of moderate activity per day)? Walking and cycling for short journeys to work or school is the easiest and cheapest way of building physical activity into your day-to-day life.

Walking, like any other type of exercise, helps boost your immune system, and will go a long way to helping your feel healthier and live longer. It could also improve the quality of your sleep and mental wellbeing.

Believe it or not, a brisk stroll of just two miles can burn up to 300 calories!