Walk Across Kentucky

Walk Across Kentucky Program Objectives To inform participants of the benefits of physical activity To promote the advantages of walking To explain to participants how walking fits into a daily routine To give participants information on how to start walking To promote walking safety

Physical Inactivity Can Lead To… Overweight/Obesity Heart disease High blood pressure Diabetes High cholesterol Cancer Osteoarthritis

Physical Activity in the U.S.A.

Walking Benefits… Decreases heart disease risk Keeps us at a healthy weight Improves blood cholesterol Helps to prevent high blood pressure Decreases risk of diabetes Decreases breast cancer risk

More Walking Benefits… Can prevent bone loss and osteoporosis Helps to manage stress and relieve tension Helps to improve mood and fight depression Provides a way to share time with family and friends Helps to establish “heart-healthy” behaviors in children

Fit Walking Into Your Routine Walk for 30 minutes before breakfast or after dinner Take the dog for a longer walk than usual Walk with a co-worker at lunch Walk up the stairs instead of taking the elevator Make walking a family activity

Getting Started Warm-up Stretch Proper form Cool down

Walking Safety Walk in the daytime or in well-lighted areas at night Walk with a friend Do not wear headphones Pay attention to your surroundings Walk on sidewalks Wear bright, reflective clothing Carry identification and change to make a phone call Do not assume automobile drivers can see you