Walking has many health, social, and environmental benefits – for the whole family. Put your best foot forward and start the school day with a stroll today!
What are the benefits of walking to school?
- Reduces childhood obesity and illnesses such as type 2 diabetes associated with this can be prevented by regular exercise including walking.
- Walking helps protect the body from many serious illnesses later on in life.
- A brisk walk to school can help with daily exercise and arrive at school or home, refreshed and energised.
- Walking can have a positive effect on your emotional wellbeing. It can encourage independence, road sense and also be an opportunity to chat with friends.
- It can save you money on transport fares or family petrol money.
- As well as many mental and physical health benefits, walking can help you feel part of your community and reduce loneliness and isolation.
- Many people don’t think of walking as being exercise. However you don’t need to go to the gym, go swimming or play sports to get the benefits of being active. Walking is a great way of reaching the recommended level of physical activity we need to stay healthy.
Walking to school dos and don’ts
- Make sure you are familiar and aware of your surroundings not only on the way to school but at all times.
- Keep in regular contact with a family member or friend particularly if you are going out in the evening / night.
- Model good road safety yourself at all times.
- Check your footwear is comfortable and appropriate for walking.
- Make sure your school bag isn’t too heavy as this can cause back problems and poor posture.
- If you live far from the school you could try combining alternative transport with walking, or drive part of the way.
- Make walking fun and enjoyable with your friends.
- For walking to count towards your recommended level of physical activity, you should walk at a pace that increases your breathing speed and heart rate.
- Taking a brisk walk for just 30 minutes a day on at least 5 days per week can help you feel good (you will feel fitter and feel better about yourself); you will have more energy, reduce stress, reduce your blood pressure, manage your weight and sleep better. You will also have fun!
For further information on this, please see http://www.walktoschool.org.uk/
