Johnson County boasts 455 miles of hiking, biking and walking trails and 365 parks and sports facilities throughout the county. The county’s 575,000 residents have many easily accessible, free locations to get out and be active. Yet almost 60 percent of residents are overweight or obese. The 2015 Johnson County Community Health Assessment (CHA) found that half of county residents say they exercise on trails, parks, and neighborhood sidewalks throughout the county (with such great amenities, the number should be much higher!).

Benefits of Walking

Just 30 minutes of walking each day decreases the risk of stroke, reduces cholesterol and lowers blood pressure. For women, walking 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 40 percent. Try breaking it up into three 10 minute chunks if you do not have time for 30 minutes at once.

Walking Fun Facts:

• The most popular form of exercising in the United States is walking.
• The average human walking speed is 3.1 miles per hour.
• When you take one step, you are using up to 200 muscles.
• Good for almost any fitness level.
• Reduces stress.
• It’s free!

Take 30 minutes for yourself. The sidewalks and trails are calling!