Liverpool residents are being encouraged to take strides during their lunchtime to improve their health.
Health@Work and Commercial District Business Improvement District, supported by Merseytravel and Liverpool Chamber of Commerce have introduced ‘Walking Lunches’.
The launch took place at Exchange Flags in the Commercial District BID and was introduced by Lord Mayor Gary Millar. Local historian, Frank Carlyle hosted the very first walking lunch.
The concept is very simple. ‘Walking Lunches’ will provide an interactive map detailing places of interest to walk to, the time it will take and the amount of calories burnt – the perfect exercise companion. There will also be opportunities to meet other businesses and guest hosts on our group walks.
Walking has been described as the ‘nearest thing to perfect exercise’ based on the fact it is free, accessible and effective. Walking for just 30 minutes five days a week can increase your life by up to nine years, while relaxing and re-energising you for the rest of the working day.
James Dunningham, Operations Director at Health@Work said; “The advantages of walking even as little as 15-25 minutes at lunchtime are phenomenal. Some of the benefits include reduced stress levels, easier control of your weight, reduced blood pressure and improved muscle strength. Walking groups also provide an opportunity to catch up with old friends and make some new ones”.
Kevin Whittaker, Operations Manager at Commercial District BID said; “Rather than sitting at your desk and having lunch; ‘Walking Lunches’ encourages people to explore the city, take a photograph on your phone and put it on the interactive map, along with useful information about where you have been. It’s a discussion point, people sharing ideas and encouraging others to explore the area and get a bit of exercise at lunchtime.”
All you need to do is follow @WalkingLunches on twitter and use the hashtag #walkinglunch. Following this, register for free at www.walkit.com to set up a profile, so you too can add and recommend your own lunch time walks; there are some great prizes up for grabs for those that do!
Pictured(left to right); James Dunningham, the Lord Mayor Councillor Gary Millar and Kevin Whittaker.
