Feel better by walking to work

The fifth annual National Walk to Work Day is scheduled for tomorrow, Fri., April 4. Americans are encouraged to turn their commute into an exercise and healthy living opportunity by walking to work.

The event is endorsed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human services, Prevention Magazine and the California Podiatric Medical Association.

"The cost of our not walking as a nation and living sedentary lifestyles is staggering. Our country is facing an obesity epidemic," said CPMA President Dr. Ernest J. Hook, a podiatric surgeon who practices in California. "Obesity and poor physical fitness are catching up to smoking as the leading causes of preventable death."

Residents are asked to walk for all or part of their commute (a minimum of 15 minutes) to work on Friday. Those who already take public transportation should try walking to a further stop before boarding or getting off a stop earlier and walking the rest of the distance. Those who have a long commute are encouraged to park further away from the worksite and walk, take stairs and/or take a walk after lunch.

Walking for 30 to 60 minutes a day can help a person lose weight, decrease stress and reduce the likelihood of serious health problems.