“I used to think all the positive things said about walking/exercise was only for ‘skinny’ people,” says Cynthia Swell, pathology transcriber, Southern California Region. “But now that I have started consistently walking, I’ve found everything that was said is true — I have more energy, I am not as stiff, and I feel so much better. In fact, if I miss a day, I feel terrible.”

Walking routinely can make everyday chores easier — from reaching for cans on a high shelf, to pulling clothes out of the dryer, to lifting heavy bags. Consider how regular walking improves:

• Strength. Daily walks strengthen muscles in your legs, hips, shoulders, and back so it’s less strenuous to reach, pull, and lift.

• Endurance. Walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week raises your stamina to keep you moving for longer periods.

• Flexibility. Frequent physical activity promotes joint mobility to increase your range of motion as well as prevent stiffness.

A walking routine can mean less effort to complete your tasks — all day long. Taking an Instant Recess® with your coworkers can also add a touch of activity — and a lot of fun — to your workday. Instant Recess includes short, 5-to-10 minute physical activity breaks that can be done anywhere, by anyone, in any attire. Routines can be adapted to include people with limited mobility. The Instant Recess toolkit has everything you need to start an Instant Recess in your office, labs, call center, patient floor, or anywhere else. Try one today!