SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - Wednesday, April 6, is National Walking Day, an effort to get Americans started on a path of moderate physical activity with proven benefits for overall health.
Chrissy Meyer with the American Heart Association says every hour of regular exercise can add two hours to life expectancy, even if you start in midlife.
Meyer says moderate physical activity has proven benefits for an individual's overall health, like lowering blood pressure, increasing good cholesteral and controlling weight.
Meyer says walking is free, easy and low-risk and is the gateway to other more vigorous exercises.
The American Heart Association is encouraging folks to focus on walking this week; on recreational sports and outdoor family activities for week two and three and on week four participate in stress reduction and mindful movement such as Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi.