Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea, has thrown his support behind Walk to Work Day (Friday 3 October).
“The annual event, organized by the Pedestrian Council of Australia, encourages regular walking to improve health and contribute to a cleaner environment,” Mr O’Dea said.
“Moderate physical activity, including walking – even for 15 minutes before and after work each day – can significantly enhance well-being, productivity and reduce absenteeism. It can also help improve air quality by reducing unnecessary vehicle emissions.
“Personally, I do a lot of walking both as part of my job and by choice, including through local bushland,” Mr O’Dea said.
“According to the Pedestrian Council, those who walk regularly are 24% less likely to develop dementia and men are 17 to 28% less likely to develop depression.
“A lack of physical activity increases mortality, and doubles the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as Type 2 diabetes and obesity. There are also indications that a lack of activity increases the risk of certain cancers, high blood pressure, lipid disorders, osteoporosis, depression and anxiety.
“If walking to work on Friday week (3 October) is out of the question, I encourage as many as possible to consider walking to at least one appointment and wherever possible, to continue the practice throughout the year.
Walk to Work Day provides an ideal launching pad for a regular exercise regime, or increasing an existing exercise program to achieve a better personal lifestyle and a cleaner environment,” Mr O’Dea said.
