April 6, 2016

Happy National Walking Day!

In honor of National Walking Day, InVite® Health is urging you to start walking! Whether you head to the park for a stroll or dust off that treadmill for a slow walk, any physical activity is better than no physical activity. To get you moving, here is some information about the significance of physical activity –

According to the CDC, walking is actually the most popular aerobic physical activity. Physical activity can help control weight and improve overall health. The CDC reports, “People who are physically active live longer and have a lower risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and some cancers.” Adults need at least 2 and ½ hours a week of aerobic physical activity at a moderate level.

Here are some tips to get your walking:

Find a walking partner to help you stay motivated
Join a community walk group or get your co-workers together for a mid-day walk outside of the office
Plan a walking route throughout the nicest areas of your neighborhood
Take your dog on a walk around your neighborhood. He’ll enjoy it as much as you will!

Iowa State University’s Food Science and Human Nutrition website, says walking benefits more than just your waist line. Walking may also improve the efficiency of your heart and lungs, increase your energy, promote a restful sleep and may even improve mental alertness and memory, to name a few.

Exercise

Whether you choose to walk, run, or even hike, general exercise is good for you. The obesity rate is a major health issue in the United States. In 2012, the CDC categorized 69% of adults and 31.8% of children as overweight or obese – that’s a huge problem! Education about health and wellness starts early – make sure your you and your family are eating healthy, balanced meals each day, talk to your kids and family members about healthy lifestyles, and head outside!

Studies have shown that exercise has amazing benefits for your entire body – from brain health to weight management – exercise is the number one way to keep your body on track. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout each day too!