October is the month where we get the first inkling of sunny, fresh days which is why it's a great month to get out walking.
We don't have to be 'sporty types' or prepared to spend money to reap the rewards of partaking in regular physical activity.
Simply 'going for a walk'
is a great example of an instantly gratifying activity that's highly accessible for many.
Deb Byers, Sport Whanganui's Green Prescription area manager and organiser of this month's annual Walktober initiative, says walking can be great for those of us who haven't been physically active for a while.
Deb says Walktober is a chance to encourage the community to think about opportunities to walk, even if it's to the shop to get the newspaper or getting the dog out for exercise.
"Whanganui has fantastic walkways and shared pathways which makes it all the more enjoyable to get out and about, it's a great excuse to have time to yourself or to join others. We're so lucky to live in a country and region with so many amazing natural walkways right on our doorstep. This means we all have access to a giant green outdoor gym that's just begging to be explored.
"Through walking we can be proactively taking the opportunity to get regular exercise and a good dose of fresh air, as well as save on fuel costs. All we need is the determination to get out and take a 30 minute walk most days of the week.
"And it does need to be a 'brisk' walk.
This means you're able to chat while you walk, but probably not sing! At this pace you're actually doing moderate intensity activity, so your heart beats faster, you feel warmer and you are slightly out of breath.
"If you haven't done any physical activity for a long time, or have had underlying health problems in recent years, it's a good idea to speak to your GP before getting started."
The GRx office at the Splash Centre has maps available of Whanganui's walkways and there is also the opportunity to join a group walk on Tuesday, October 25 at 9am from the Splash Centre.
¦ Contact Sport Whanganui's Deb Byers on 06 349 2325 or deb@sportwhanganui.co.nz.
