Wednesday of last week was National Walk @ Lunch Day. We thought it would be fun to write a post on this because it is such a great idea! Are you walking at lunch?

The definition of the day is as follows: National Walk @ Lunch Day is a national workplace walking initiative designed to encourage you to take a walk during your lunch break.  Since walking briskly for 30 minutes can burn up to 200 calories for the average person, a daily walking program can be an effective way to manage weight and blood pressure.  Regular physical activity can improve stamina and reduce fatigue during the work day and at home.

This does no mean that you have to wait a year to take a walk at lunch. This is the time to start a new routine. Instead of sitting at your desk during your lunch and feeling lazy, eat your lunch and then go for a walk. The best way to make this happen is to find a friend who wants to do it with you. Make a commitment to each other that you will walk for 30 minutes two to three times a week. Make it a fun part of your day and make sure you don’t walk the same path everyday – mix it up so you don’t get bored.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates the cost to treat illness and chronic disease caused by inactive lifestyles is nearly $1,000 for every family in America, every year. Simply getting 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as a brisk walk, at least five times a week has significant health benefits, lowering the risk of developing or dying from cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes and improving the health of muscles, bones and joints.

Let the National Walk @ Lunch Day inspire you to try walking at lunch. See if you can do it for a month and then another and perhaps a full year. It’s important to celebrate your health and wellness and make it a part of your day. Find a buddy and start walking at lunch – you will enjoy it!