Below is a list of the known benefits of walking:
- Promotes Physical Activity: Studies show that people who are physically active live longer and feel better. It’s never too late to start being active. Walking is a great way to get moving.
- Boosts Brain Power: Walking improves your ability to make decisions, solve problems, and focus. Even small doses of walking, such as 15-minute treks, can increase brain power.
- Aids Long-Lasting Weight Management: Everyone’s metabolism tends to slow over time, which can lead to weight gain. Walking burns calories and fights unwanted pounds. Healthy weight reduces risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
- Requires Only Modest Investment of Time and Money: Walking for 30 minutes a day can be split up into two shorter sessions of 15-minute walks or even three ten-minute walks. You don’t need fancy gear or equipment, just a good pair of shoes.
- Increases Employee Productivity: Physical activity increases energy levels, reduces stress, and contributes to an improved immune system. It also improves concentration and short-term memory.
- May Lead to Reduced Insurance Costs: Sedentary behavior results in higher healthcare costs. Walking is one way to help prevent and manage several chronic diseases.
Research demonstrates that when people cluster with others who are healthy or ready to change their behavior, healthy behaviors increase, as does the individual’s ability to make lasting positive health changes. Invite a friend to walk with you today using this editable invitation! Blue Zones Project is making walking together easy and fun through introducing Walking Moais and Walking School Buses to the Fort Worth community.
Walking Moais
Walking Moais are groups of 5 to 8 people who walk together at least once a week for 10 weeks to interesting destinations throughout the community. Walking Moais are a great way to meet new friends and stay healthy. The term “moai” (pronounced mow-eye) comes from Okinawa, Japan. It means “meeting for a common purpose,” and originated as a way for villagers to support each other. Walking Moais encourage that same social network while adding the physical benefits of walking. Blue Zones Project is working with organizations and worksites to establish Walking Moais in Fort Worth. More information on how individuals can join the Walking Moai program will be available soon.
Walking School Bus
Thirty years ago, 60 percent of elementary school kids walked to school. Now, less than 15 percent do. Blue Zones Project is working with schools in your neighborhood to change that statistic — with Walking School Buses. A Walking School Bus is a carpool for kids without a car, where two adults lead the way. With set meeting spots, leave times, and safe walking paths, your kids will walk or bike their way to well-being. Kids who walk to school are more alert, ready to learn, and they discover how fun and easy it is to develop lifelong healthy habits. On International Walk to School Day (October 7, 2015) seven Fort Worth ISD schools will be kicking off the Walking School Bus Program. 