GETTING your steps in should be high on your agenda when National Walking Month sweeps the county in May.
The campaign encourages the public to embrace the health and well-being benefits of walking or wheeling.
National Walking Month aims to promote the free, fun and flexible way to build exercise into your routine whilst embracing the natural beauty of the region.
According to Sport England Active Lives Survey for 2012-22, adults across both counties of Herefordshire and Worcestershire walk more often than the national average.
The stats show 50 per cent of Herefordshire adults either walk regularly or fairly regularly (between two and seven times a week), and the same for 45 per cent of Worcestershire adults. The national average was 43 per cent.
Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council and Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire have come together to promote the collaborative campaign.
Dr Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health for Worcestershire County Council said:
“Getting out and about for a walk in the fresh air, is good for our minds, our bodies and the environment.
“Taking regular walks can reduce stress and blood pressure, improve sleep, boost your mood and help you manage your weight. It’s also fun, particularly when you walk with friends and colleagues.
“We would love to see pictures of how people enjoy walking, whether that’s during the week walking the dog or taking children to school, or a special walk at the weekend for fun.
“We live in a beautiful area, which many people travel to for their holiday. It’s now a great time of year to enjoy the natural beauty nearby. So please use the hashtag #WalkthisMay to share your walk.”
Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council and Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire have come together to promote the collaborative campaign.
Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s social inclusion and well-being manager, Caroline Savage, is eager to engage the older communities in both counties in walking month.
“Walking is not only an excellent way to reintroduce your body to physical activity, but it also offers a host of social benefits.
“These social interactions, which are a natural part of our walking groups and sports, can have a positive impact on mental health and overall wellbeing.
“Whether you prefer a friendly competition in walking sports like football, netball, or basketball, or a leisurely stroll with one of our walking groups, there’s something for everyone. Come along and have a go this walking month.”
Across social media and the websites of the participating organisations this May, you can learn more about walking routes near you, the benefits walking can have on mental health, the benefits of walking for travel and more.
You can get involved this May by using the hashtag #WalkthisMay to show us how you incorporate walking into your daily lives.
Visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk/WalkThisMay for more information.
