HAMPTON ROADS, Va. — The American Heart Association wants to use to remind the public of the benefits of getting outside for a walk.
Wednesday was National Walking Day.
The American Heart Association says 1 in 4 U.S. adults sit for longer than 8 hours a day. That lack of physical activity can lead to negative physical and mental health consequences.
But getting out for some fresh air and staying active can be linked to a lower risk for cardiovascular diseases and stroke, reduced stress and blood pressure. It can boost your mood and help you sleep better, and even increase your life expectancy.
“It's really good for our cardiovascular health. And it's really good for our mental health to me, many of us have been talking about how do we really take care of decreasing depression. How do we actually decrease levels of maybe dementia,” said Dr. Ethlyn McQueen-Gibson who serves on the board of the American Heart Association Hampton Roads.
“All of that is really tied to getting out and walking-it's all tied together. All it takes is a little walk, and you don't have to walk nine miles. All you have to do is take a few steps.”
Dr. McQueen-Gibson said whatever you do, just get up and move even if it’s just a couple of steps a day.
So, put on your favorite music and get moving and grooving, go for a walk with your friends and catch up, or take your dog out for a spin around the neighborhood.
Dr. McQueen-Gibson says any movement is better than no movement!
