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Hampshire Paths Partnership has been involved in a new Healthy Walking initiative through partnership with the New Forest District Council and the NHS Primary Care Trust.
The purpose of this initiative is to encourage people to take regular exercise by identifying short circular walks close to residential areas which are easy to walk and follow.
Walking is a good form of exercise. Healthy walks make it easier to exercise as part of your normal day. Regular brisk walks will increase your heart rate, making you warm and slightly out of breath.
Start slowly, enjoy the fresh air, and gradually build up to the recommended 30 minutes a day.
The benefits of regular brisk walking include
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
- Keeps your heart strong
- Reduces or maintains your weight
- Reduces blood pressure
- Tones your muscles
- Relaxation and enjoyment
| Calories used when walking |
| Weight (stones) |
8
|
9.5
|
11
|
12.5
|
14
|
15.5
|
17
|
| Calories used after walking 1 mile |
64
|
79
|
93
|
107
|
120
|
136
|
152
|
If you are taking medication, recently had an operation or in any doubt about your ability, please consult your doctor.
Walking Safely
- Tell someone when & where you are going walking & when you expect to be back
- Wear suitable clothing & footwear
- Take care crossing roads
- If you are walking in poor light, wear reflective clothing
So far we have set up three routes in Marchwood, each having its own individual leaflet. All of the routes are waymarked with a white arrow and red heart.
The leaflets are available free of charge at local newsagents, doctors surgeries, community and recreation centres, Local Information Points and libraries.
They can also be downloaded from the walks pages as Adobe PDF files. |
