To mark World Walking Day, Africa Health Report’s Southwest correspondent, Korede Abdullah, presents a special report on the transformative power of walking. This insightful feature discusses the significance of the day, while underscoring the extensive benefits of walking, from boosting cardiovascular health to reducing stress and anxiety.
Promoting Physical Activity and Wellness
Today, people around the world will lace up their shoes to celebrate World Walking Day, a global initiative promoting physical activity and wellness. Observed annually on October 6, this awareness campaign aims to combat sedentary lifestyles, reduce chronic diseases, and foster community engagement.
World Walking Day serves as a timely reminder of the importance of regular physical activity in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), physical inactivity is responsible for 3.2 million deaths annually.
Millions Unite for World Walking Day, Momentum Continues to Build
World Walking Day has become a global phenomenon, with millions of people from diverse backgrounds and age groups participating annually. Since its inception, the event has gained significant traction, spreading to over 100 countries and inspiring individuals to prioritize physical activity.
This year’s celebration saw record-breaking participation, with organizers reporting a 20% increase in registration compared to last year. The surge in popularity underscores the growing awareness of the importance of physical activity in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Walking: A Holistic Approach to Health and Happiness
Beyond its physical benefits, walking has emerged as a powerful tool for boosting mental well-being and fostering social connections. Studies have shown that regular walking can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.
Moreover, walking with friends, family, or community groups promotes social interaction, helping to combat loneliness and isolation. As World Walking Day gains momentum, experts emphasize the importance of incorporating walking into daily routines to reap its holistic benefits.
World Walking Day Spurs Policy Change, Promoting Pedestrian-Friendly Infrastructure
World Walking Day has become a catalyst for policy change, encouraging governments to prioritize pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and active transportation. Cities worldwide are responding by investing in bike lanes, walkable sidewalks, and green spaces.
This shift towards sustainable urban planning not only promotes physical activity but also reduces carbon emissions and improves air quality. Governments are recognizing the long-term benefits of investing in walkable communities, driving economic growth, and enhancing quality of life.
Walking: An Inclusive Solution for Communities Worldwide
One of the most significant advantages of World Walking Day is its accessibility. Walking is a low-cost, inclusive activity that requires no specialized equipment or training.
This makes it an ideal solution for communities with limited resources, where access to gyms or fitness facilities may be restricted.
By promoting walking as a viable form of exercise, World Walking Day helps bridge the health equity gap, empowering individuals from all walks of life to take control of their health and well-being.
Regular exercise reduces cardiovascular diseases
The Medical Director of the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Professor ADEWALE MUSA-OLOMU, has also encouraged Nigerians to engage in various forms of exercise to improve their health by reducing the prevalence of cardiovascular and other life-threatening diseases.
He made the statement on Saturday during a walk organized by the hospital’s Aerobic Group to mark the 2024 World Walking Day, aimed at promoting good health.
Musa-Olomu, represented by the Head of Clinical Services at FMC, Dr. ADEKUNLE ADEDIRAN, urged both young and old to embrace walking for at least 150 minutes a week, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The MD noted that regular walking offers numerous benefits for maintaining good health and encouraged everyone to engage in the exercise.
He said, “Walking or other forms of exercise engage practically all the muscles in the body, especially the large muscles of the lower limbs. When exercised regularly, these muscles become stronger and firmer, and the joints are better lubricated and more flexible
“The heart muscle is a large muscle that pumps blood about 70 times a minute throughout a person’s life. This muscle is also exercised when you walk briskly or jog. The more you exercise the heart, the better it performs, reducing the likelihood of failure.
“Walking and other forms of exercise reduce cardiovascular diseases like stroke, hypertension, and heart attacks. It also improves digestion and nutrient absorption.
“Common conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and various forms of cancer are significantly reduced with regular exercise,” Prof. Musa-Olomu added.
