Walk it out
Increasing physical activity is without doubt a crucial element of any healthy lifestyle.
Health experts agree and say that:
Physical activity is one of the cheapest, most effective ‘medicines’.
30 minutes activity a day will cut risk of heart disease by 50%, as well as reducing obesity, diabetes osteoporosis and colon cancer.
Being inactive is as serious a risk factor in heart disease as smoking
Exercise is a crucial step that people of all ages must take to increase chances of a long and healthy life.
30 minutes exercise a day is an easily achievable target.
Finding a safe route starting and ending at the salon provides all team members with the opportunity to walk every day. Team members are encouraged to walk before or after work or even in-between clients.
Things to consider when implementing this are:
The route must be safe, through well-lit, public areas.
Encourage the team to walk together in groups of more than three.
Wear the right shoes particularly if you are going to walk off made paths such as in the park or countryside. They don’t have to be walking boots just flat, secure and comfortable – the more unpredictable and uneven the conditions the better protection you will need.
Take water to prevent dehydration.
Use sunscreen or take a hat in the hotter parts of the year.
Take a water proof jacket if the weather is unpredictable.
In the winter you may need something warm to put on when you stop or finish so you don’t cool down too quickly.
Plan your route and start off gently, you can build up the distance and speed day by day as you feel more confident. It’s best to start off with a short walk so you can assess your own fitness level. We are all much fitter in our memories than we are in reality and you don’t want to be put off by doing too much too quickly by causing an injury or just not enjoying the experience.