walk off that Santa belly
[21 December 2005]
Does your man’s big belly make him a Santa lookalike? Then it’s time to get him out walking according to the Ramblers’ Association (RA), which is campaigning to get the nation on their feet this Christmas.
Rosy cheeks and a big tummy are not just seasonal features for lots of dads, husbands and boyfriends as obesity and inactivity rise, and the RA says a daily stroll can make all the difference. The charity is encouraging more people to build walking into their everyday lives to counteract Britain’s worrying trend in inactivity, which is making many men look like fat Father Christmases all year round.
Although Santa’s portly figure and ruddy cheeks are endearing, in real life being overweight can cause serious health problems including heart disease and stroke. A sedentary, or inactive, lifestyle is one of the ten leading global causes of death and disability (World Health Organisation, 2002). At the same time, the nation is walking less and less, yet walking is one of the simplest and safest forms of exercise.
Research has shown walking regularly for as little as 30 minutes a day can help reduce the risk of both coronary heart disease and stroke. Walking also strengthens the bones, improves flexibility and there is evidence it can reduce the risk of bowel cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease and diabetes.
Need help getting started? Try the RA’s Festival of Winter Walks (December 26th to January 3rd). With more than 400 free led walks all over the country, many short and at an easy-going pace, it’s the perfect way to walk off the extra Christmas dinner and kick-start your New Year fitness resolutions. Walks are led by RA members and are open to everyone.
Frances Warneford of the RA said: “The worrying truth this Christmas is that many British men could pass for Santa without the need for extra padding. But a brief daily stroll can help control your weight and improve your fitness – not to mention walking off all those extra mince pies! Our message this festive season is save Santa for Christmas, and make sure you’re slim and healthy all year round by making walking part of your daily life.”