Walk More to Live Longer

Posted by: BeneFIT Corporate Wellness
Date: March 31, 2015

Studies show adults may gain as much as two hours of life expectancy for each hour of regular, vigorous exercise—like very brisk walking—even if they don’t begin exercising until middle age. Therefore, it makes good sense to walk more and eat well to live longer.

Some fast facts about walking, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Americans reported they walk for many reasons, including transportation, fun, relaxation, exercise or simply walking the dog
• The West and Northeast regions of the country have the highest percentage of adults who walk, but the South showed the largest percentage increase of adults who walk compared to the other regions.
• Adults should have at least 2-1/2 hours per week of aerobic physical activity, such as a fast-paced walk for at least 10 minutes at a time.
• Active adults are at less risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression and some cancers.

How do you translate that into your work environment? As an employer, encourage employees to take 10-minute walking breaks. If possible, map out safe walking routes onsite or near your facility.

Opportunities to exercise are everywhere we turn, but the fact remains that 60 percent of Americans do not meet the recommended 150 minutes a week of exercise. Many adults find scheduling 30 to 60 minutes of activity every day simply unrealistic. On a positive note, research shows that breaking up the recommended 30 minutes of exercise per day into smaller increments of 5 to 10 minutes can still provide health benefits, when performed consistently.

That’s welcome news to many adults who spend prolonged periods of time sitting while at work. Experts recommend at least two minutes of standing, stretching, or walking for every 20 minutes of sitting. Even short increments of activity can increase blood flow; releasing hormones that help us manage stress, increase alertness, and burn calories!

Learn more by reviewing five tips to encourage employees to incorporate exercise into their daily work routines.

For additional information on the power of walking and exercise in the workplace, please contact us.

Disclaimer: The information presented is for your general knowledge and does not replace the advice of a physician. All medical inquiries regarding your health should be presented to a physician.