Our good friends at 10,000 Steps are adding another new toolkit to their suite of resources supporting workplaces, councils and communities to get more movement into their daily routine. The theme is Step into Nature and it’s all about getting out and exploring your local neighbourhoods, parks, trails, beaches and creeks.
Research shows that just 30 minutes of brisk walking every day can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by 35% and reduce stress levels significantly. Walking in green spaces can also boost mood, improve focus, and enhance overall wellbeing.
With over one-third of Australian adults not meeting the daily physical activity guidelines, 10,000 Steps is developing this toolkit to encourage more Queenslanders to reap the benefits of walking and physical activity in natural environments.
If you are part of an organisation that wants to support health and wellbeing and promote nature-based physical activity in your workplace or local community, you can become a 10,000 Steps Coordinator and access the Program’s resources for free.
- Use the Step into Nature toolkit to promote and encourage nature-based physical activity
- Host a 10,000 Steps group challenge or tournament to support a culture of physical activity within your workplace or community
- Explore the range of strategies 10,000 Steps has for supporting workplaces and communities
To become a 10,000 Steps Coordinator or for more information about the Step into Nature project visit the 10,000 Steps website.
If you are an individual looking to boost your physical activity levels, being active in nature can help you do this while offering additional benefits for your health and wellbeing. Here are some ideas and opportunities to help you move more:
- Explore your local, state and national parks: Queensland is home to stunning trails, from the Gold Coast Hinterland to the Daintree Rainforest. Check your Council’s website for information on local walks or hiking and cycling maps
- Track your steps and activities with an app or pedometer: Use the FREE 10,000 Steps app to monitor progress, available on Apple or Android
- Join a 10,000 Steps Monthly Challenge! Free to join at any time of the month, Monthly Challenges include virtual step journeys and a random prize draw
- Learn more about the benefits of being active in nature: read 10,000 Steps’ evidence-based articles
- Join a walking group: Councils and community groups often organise guided walks in local parks or on nature trails
