Walk Your Way to Better Health During American Heart Month

NEW CITY, NY – In observance of American Heart Month this February, the Rockland County Department of Health reminds residents of the benefits of walking to improve your health, including heart health. 

According to the American Heart Association, research has shown that walking at a brisk pace at least 150 minutes a week can help you:

• Think better, feel better, and sleep better.
• Reduce your risk of serious diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and several types of cancer.
• Improve your blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood cholesterol levels.
• Increase your energy and stamina.
• Improve your mental and emotional well-being and reduce your risk of depression.
• Improve memory and reduce your risk of dementia.
• Boost bone strength and reduce your risk of osteoporosis.
• Prevent weight gain.

Even short activity sessions can be added up over the week to reach the goal of 150 minutes. Don’t let the winter weather stop you. You can walk at a mall or take laps around large department or grocery stores. Walking around your house and doing your household chores counts, too.

If you walk on roadways, there are rules of the road that need to be followed to avoid getting injured by a motor vehicle. Follow these New York State Vehicle and Traffic Laws and other safety tips when walking on streets:

• Use the sidewalk if available, and if you must walk on the road, walk facing oncoming traffic.
• Wear brightly colored clothing so drivers can easily see you.
• Walk with a flashlight or wear reflective gear after dark.
• Be alert; don’t text or stare at your cell phone while walking.
• Be aware of cars in driveways that may be backing out.
• Wait for a “walk” symbol on traffic lights. If there’s no traffic light, look left, right, then left again before crossing. Cross at a corner, not mid-block.

The Rockland County Department of Health is working with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to educate the community on important traffic safety measures for pedestrians. To schedule a free, interactive, 45-minute presentation at your business, community agency, or faith-based group, call the Health Department at (845) 364-2500. For more information on road safety, visit the Rockland County Safe Streets website.

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