March 21, 2017

We are supporting the new drive from Public Health England to encourage Cumbrian adults to build more physical activity into their lives by simply walking briskly for at least ten continuous minutes every day. The campaign is called Active 10

A daily brisk 10 minute walk can make people feel better, more energetic and improve their mood. Over time it can also help lower the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

In addition, people are being encouraged to download a free mobile phone app – Active 10 – which shows how much brisk walking a person does throughout the day, and provides tips and encouragement on how to fit ten minute bursts of brisk walking into your day.

Richard Johnston, Senior Manager from Active Cumbria said:

“We’re excited to support Public Health England in their drive to get the local community more physically active. This campaign fits in really well with our Go Active in Cumbria campaign which focusses on a range of easy activities to get into including Walking.

Moderate intensity physical activity every day, including ten continuous minutes of brisk walking, can lower the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Other benefits are increased physical fitness, improved mood, improved quality of life, increased physical leanness and healthier weight.”

Ian Stewart, Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Communities within Cumbria County Council said:

“The sedentary nature of much of modern life means that when you get into your 40’s and 50’s, many people have increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.  With all the stresses of modern day life, exercise can sometimes be the last thing you want to do.

This campaign aims to reach out to those people to encourage them to start doing 10 minutes of brisk walking, showing that this counts as exercise too. There are a range of ways that people can fit 10 continuous minutes of brisk walking into their everyday lives– e.g. walking to work, stepping out at lunchtime, walking to the shops or local park, or taking the dog for a walk. To get the benefits of an active lifestyle there is no need to join an expensive fitness programme or to wear sportswear, walking counts too”

Visit Public Health England Active 10