Solvitur Ambulando
It is solved by walking.
Whether attributed to St. Augustine or Diogenes, some ancient ideas are timeless for a reason. In the case of walking, the reasons are legion.
- Research has found that fast walking as little as 15 minutes per day is associated with a nearly 20% reduction in total mortality.
- A five-minute walk after a meal helps moderate blood sugar levels, preventing post-meal spikes and helping the body use insulin more effectively.
- Several studies have found walking reduces arthritis-related pain, and that walking five to six miles a week can even help prevent arthritis from forming.
- Walking can help protect you during cold and flu season, people who walk at least 20 minutes a day report.
- One study found that the odds of depression decline as daily step count rises.
- It reduces cardiovascular disease risk. Fast walking has been found to decrease the risk of heart failure, arrhythmias, and type 2 diabetes, in part by lowering blood pressure.
- It lowers the risk of dementia. Research published in JAMA Neurology found that even people logging as few as 3,800 steps a day saw a meaningful reduction in their risk.
The list goes on. No wonder that Governors are increasingly exploring the intersection of health policy and outdoor recreation and the benefits walking and outdoor activity can deliver to constituents. In addition to the reasons above, outdoor recreation can also connect communities, and act as a counterbalance to screen time for youth.
Governors in every state manage some of the most beautiful trails in the world. But you don’t need a paradise backdrop to get moving. Any sidewalk, park, or path will do. Walk with a neighbor. Walk with your kids. Walk your dog. Walk with a podcast. It all counts.
If you aren’t sure how to get started, consider starting on National Walking Day, celebrated the first Wednesday in April every year, and while this year’s observation falls on April 1, don’t be foolish: Get outside, get moving, and start a habit for a (longer) lifetime.
Click below for state/territorial parks and outdoor recreation resources.
