Walking in May’s warmer weather encourages people in the United States to embrace the many benefits of walking.
“May being a month about physical health is a splendid choice [for May’s National Walking Month] since it is warm, it feels good when being outside,” said freshman Zachary Song.
This month was first created by health and transportation groups to combat the sedentary lifestyle becoming more prevalent in modern societies, according to the Healthy Life Foundation.
The month encourages regular walking and promotes small lifestyle changes that can lead to major health improvements.
There is also abundant evidence that walking promotes recovery from a range of mental health disorders, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
“Mrs. Treptor, Mrs. Adriano and I walk part of third block to help with our health and to just chat with each other,” said astronomy and oceanography teacher Michelle Bailey-Hennessey. “We used to sponsor the dance team together, and this is a way for us to reconnect.”
Walking betters physical health as well.
It does so in various ways, like building stamina, burning excess calories and increasing cardiovascular fitness, according to the National Health Service (NHS).
“National holidays about physical health can help combat a sedentary lifestyle by encouraging people to exercise with others,” said freshman Owen Batchelder.
Every stride is a step towards a better lifestyle, whether a stroll or a brisk walk.
“My favorite time to walk outside is in the evening, on a clear night. I love looking at the constellations, finding satellites and any surprising meteors or shooting stars. It really takes away the stress of the day,” said Bailey-Hennessey.
