Returning this May is National Walking Month. Living Streets, the UK’s charity for everyday walking, brings you this annual event. With the aim to get more people moving and realise the benefits of walking, the #Try20 theme returns to 2023.
Why walk?
Walking is a low-impact exercise which you can incorporate into your daily routine. Even better, walking doesn’t need any specialist equipment or a gym membership.
We all know walking is good for us, but what are the actual health benefits?
• Your cardiovascular health can improve. By walking on a regular basis, you can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Your circulation is likely to improve and your cholesterol levels lowered.
• Bones and muscles will strengthen. Walking is a weight-bearing exercise. This means it can help strengthen muscles and bones in your legs, hips, and lower back.
• Walking can release those feel-good hormones, endorphins. By walking, you’re likely to feel less stressed. There is also a chance you will see an improvement in your mental well-being.
• It can be effective for weight loss. By walking, not only are you burning calories, but research suggests that a 15-minute walk can curb cravings for sugary snacks too!
• Your immune function can increase. Walking could be a great way to fight off those seasonal bugs.
#Try20
For some encouragement throughout May, Living Streets have put together a Try20 list. The checklist provides 20 different ways to jazz up your walk including, litter picking, a walking meeting or taking an evening stroll. Head on over to the Living Streets website to download your copy and let us know how you get on!
Want some inspiration to get walking? Read Hayley’s story about walking to work at Thorpe Park Hotel.