What’s Happening
A new Australian study by Dr. Anthony Walsh from Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN) highlights the benefits of walking to work, revealing key motivators like improved mental health, predictable travel time, and financial savings.
This research comes just before National Walk to Work Day on Friday, 6 September 2024.
Why it Matters?
The study emphasises the significant impact of active commuting on physical and mental well-being, particularly in the context of declining opportunities for such activities due to the rise in remote work.
Encouraging more people to walk to work can help address the widespread issue of physical inactivity among Australian adults.
By the Numbers
- Only 22% of adult Australians meet physical activity guidelines.
- 1 in 4 adults under 65 were completely inactive in the past week.
- Nearly 50% of employed adults report that their workday is mostly sedentary.
Zoom In
Participants in the study noted that walking to work provides physical health benefits but also significantly reduces stress levels.
Statements like “By the time I’m home, I’m not stressed anymore” underscore the mental health benefits that come from this daily routine.
Zoom Out
With the average adult sitting for 9 hours a day and nearly half of Australian adults working from home at least one day a week, incorporating more movement into daily routines has never been more critical.
Active commuting, whether walking, cycling, or using public transport, offers a practical solution.
Local Impact
National Walk to Work Day, initiated by the Pedestrian Council of Australia in 1999, serves as a yearly reminder to Australians to incorporate more walking into their daily lives. The day aims to promote healthier, more active lifestyles and encourage participation across the nation.
What to Look for Next
As National Walk to Work Day approaches, expect increased awareness campaigns encouraging Australians to embrace active commuting, not just on this day but every day.
This research could also inspire further initiatives aimed at integrating more physical activity into the workday.
For more information, please visit walk.com.au.
Regular walking can help:
- Reduce the risk of, or help manage blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes
- Maintain or improve blood pressure, and cholesterol, and reduce cardiovascular disease
- Reduce the risk of some cancers
- Prevent unhealthy weight gain and help with weight loss
- Maintain strong muscles and bones
- Develop and maintain physical and mental well-being
- Create opportunities for socialising and meeting people
It’s easy to get involved:
- If you can’t walk all the way, use public transport and get off the bus, train, tram or ferry a few stops earlier and walk the rest of the way to work
- If you do need to drive, leave the car a kilometre or two from your destination and walk the rest of the way
- Take a half-hour walk at lunchtime
- Where possible use the stairs rather than escalators or the lift
- If you sit at a desk, be sure to get up and walk around at least once every hour
- Get up and talk to your colleagues instead of sending them emails or texts
- If working from home, make sure you take a break and walk regularly throughout the day
- Rather than holding meetings around a table or online, ‘host’ a ‘walking workshop’
- Challenge your workmates and compare your steps
