Take a walk, it feels good

WALK to work to save the environment and improve your health.

That was the message from Wentworth Area Health Authority when it encouraged the community to walk to work on Friday, October 4.

An initiative of the Pedestrian Council of Australia, Walk to Work Day aims to promote walking as an important mode of transport and a healthy activity.

Service health improvement consultant Sally Easterbrook said the theme of the day was simply “Walk More".

“We challenged staff of Wentworth Area Health Service, and local residents, to walk part or all of the way to work on the day," Ms Easterbrook said.

“We understand that not everyone can walk all the way to work, but it's just as good to walk some of the way if you can."

She stressed that participation could be as simple as getting off the bus or train a stop earlier, or walking to the station instead of taking the car.

“Walking is a great way to stay fit, costs nothing and it's fun," Ms Easterbrook said.

“The important thing is to just get out there and enjoy walking as a regular activity. Your body will love you for it."

According to the NSW Department of Health, people who walk regularly tend to feel more confident, relaxed and happy, control their weight better, have stronger bones and are less likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

“We recommend walking for 30 minutes on most days to enjoy these benefits," Ms Easterbrook said.