Health Walks inEast Dunbartonshire

Physically active people have up to 50 per cent reduced risk of major chronic disease such as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers.

Physically active people have up to 50 per cent reduced risk of major chronic disease such as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers.

Exercise is as good as

medication as a treatment

for some mental health issues such as

depression and anxiety.

What is health?

“A state of complete physical, mental and social

well-being and not merely the absence of disease

and infirmity” (World Health Organisation)

Physical Mental

Social

Health Benefits of Walking

At any pace: mental health benefits

Improves sleep

helps prevent diabetes

increases ‘good’ cholesterol

helps manage weight

prevents development of osteoarthritis & osteoporosis

reduces risk factors for falls in the elderly

Reduces risk of bowel and breast cancer

benefits immune system

Walking at a brisk pace

Improves functioning of the heart and lungs

Reduces blood pressure

How much Physical Activity Should We Do?

Frequency Most days of the week (at least 5)

Intensity ‘brisk’ walking Walk at a pace so that you:Breathe a little fasterFeel a little warmerFeel your heart beating a little faster

You should feel comfortable and be able to talk

Time Build up to 30 minutes a day

Percentage of people in Scotland reaching Physical Activity recommendations*

* 30mins on at least five days of the week(data from Scottish Health Survey 2003)

3344

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

WomenMen

Main Risk factors - Coronary Heart Disease

Inactivity (the most common)

SmokingHigh CholesterolHigh Blood Pressure

Mondays – Milton of Campsie

Tuesdays – Bishopbriggs

Tuesdays – Harestanes

Wednesdays – Lennoxtown

Wednesdays – Milngavie

Thursdays – Twechar

Fridays – Kirkintilloch

Into the Café!

Cup of Tea