16 June 2004

Walking to "Work Out"

Photo opportunity 11.30am, Thursday 17 June, Tower Building, University of Dundee with Deputy Principal, Chaplain and other staff "stepping out".

The Institute of Sport and Exercise at the University of Dundee has taken a positive step towards supporting university staff to lead healthier, more active lives, with the launch of a "Walk in to Work Out" initiative.

"Walk in to Work Out" not only provides staff with supportive information relating to the health benefits of walking to and from walk, it also provides information on local transport links and key travel points around the university campus, enabling staff to co-ordinate their use of public transport with designated walking routes to and from the main campus.

Research and evidence points to our increasingly sedentary lifestyle the associated health problems which accompany modern living.

However research also indicates that becoming an "active commuter" through walking or cycling part of all of the way to work, can be an effective way of increasing daily physical activity and enjoying the associated health benefits, including reducing body fat, enhancing mental health and improving blood cholesterol.

Paul McPate, the ACTIVE Dundee coordinator for the Institute of Sport and Exercise said: "Regular physical activity has been shown to have important benefits for health. Becoming an 'active commuter', by incorporating walking as part of your daily journey to work, not only helps you feel better - it can also benefit your pocket by saving money."

The initiative promoted by the Institute of Sport and Exercise provides university staff with the information and support needed to enable them to make regular daily activity a central part of their lifestyle.

By Jenny Marra, Head of Press 01382 344910, out of hours: 07968298585, j.m.marra@dundee.ac.uk