Walk Across Kentucky

Walk Across KentuckyProgram 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.

24%

54%

22%

No ActivitySome ActivityActive

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