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Maryland State Exercise - Walking

[photo, People strolling at Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Maryland] Walking became the State Exercise of Maryland on October 1, 2008 (Chapters 400 & 401, Acts of 2008; Code State Government Article, sec. 13-320).

People strolling at Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Maryland, October 2008. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.

The health benefits of walking include improved cardiovascular fitness, reduced risk of developing high blood pressure, and prevention of heart attacks, colon and breast cancer, and osteoporosis. Physical activity also elevates mood and reduces anxiety. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends that all Americans walk at least 30 minutes per day, five days a week.

A walking program may include using a treadmill, or walking outside at an average speed of 3 to 4 miles per hour. To minimize the risk of injury, it is important to warm up and stretch muscles before each session, wear good walking shoes, remain hydrated, and cool down before finishing.

Many Marylanders belong to clubs which sponsor walking events throughout the year. The Maryland Volkssport Association, for example, conducts events which are noncompetitive and family-friendly.

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