Fun Walks Serious Business

THOUSANDS of health-conscious citizens will participate in tomorrow’s Pinehill Funwalk, making the long trek from Castries to Pigeon Island in the name of fun and fitness. In its many years, the event has served to educate people about the importance of healthy lifestyles, so tomorrow’s pitch will be no different.

Healthy lifestyles, as we all know, play a key role in how able we are to conduct our daily affairs. Without a proper diet and adequate exercise, the propensity for diseases increases, which – sadly – can often lead to death.

Given that non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure are prevalent among the populace, there can be no overstating the point that people need to treat themselves to regular exercise as part of their daily routine.

In fact, obesity has been proven to lead to serious physical consequences: cardiovascular disease, cancer, Type II diabetes, strokes and high blood pressure. Psychological effects include depression, anxiety, low quality of life, low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction.

Like all fun walks organized during the year, tomorrow’s walk serves as a motivator to especially those who might not usually muster the courage to burn a few calories via regular exercise. As such, the group participation method can often serve as inspiration to begin that vital step towards staying healthy and keeping fit.

We have all heard anecdotes about family members or friends who seemed to be in perfect health one day and was later diagnosed with an ailment, often resulting from inadequate exercise and poor diet. As such, making the commitment to include exercise as part of our daily regimen must become the norm. Whether you start today or tomorrow, just make the time for it.

Stay healthy!