Walk your way to health.

Walking is a great way to start on your path to becoming more physically active. It’s free and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. No equipment is needed, no gym is membership required, and it can be done almost anywhere. Whether it’s a 10-minute walk on your lunch break or a brisk evening walk with your dog, getting your steps in can help improve your health in many ways. And it’s great for people of all ages.

Walking burns calories, eases joint pain, tones leg muscles, and improves your energy. A daily walk can also help boost your immune system and strengthen your heart, as well as lower your blood sugar. While these are great benefits, one of the most significant “side effects” is that it decreases your risk of developing many preventable chronic diseases. This includes heart disease, diabetes, and many types of cancer.

Over half of Delawareans are not meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS)). Those who are inactive have a higher risk of stroke, depression, heart disease, many cancers, and ultimately, an early death.

To get moving, grab a friend and find some safe and convenient areas to walk. Be sure to wear proper walking shoes and reflective gear if you’re walking in an area where there are cars or bicyclists. To find a nearby trail, view our Healthy Lifestyles Map.

As you embark on your walking journey, keep in mind that even five minutes a day can provide health benefits. Start by setting a short-term goal of fitting in a 10-minute walk every day. Increase your time and frequency as you build strength and stamina.

To learn more about how you can improve your health, click here.