Lace Up Those Walking Shoes

Created on 10/14/2011 at 05:39PM

October Is National Walking Month, which means you are encouraged to leave your vehicle behind and walk instead. Why have a designated month to put one foot in front of the other?  On average, experts say, we take a fraction of the recommended 10,000 steps a day. A designated month serves to increase awareness of the benefits of walking and to kick start a new habit.

  The benefits of walking are many:

• Health: Walking is great for burning calories and tuning up your cardiovascular system. If you want a challenge, take on hills or pick up the pace. 
• Fresh air:  Get out and enjoy the fall colors while you can, winter will be here soon enough.
• Savings: Walking is free.
• Ambience: There are too many cars on the road. Why add to the road masses?
• Happiness: Do not discount the stress-relieving  power of a stroll. Walk with a friend when you can, as socializing nurtures mental health too.