Celebrate National Take Your Pants For A Walk Day

When: July 27

Each July 27th, National Take Your Pants For A Walk Day ambles around again, encouraging people to get out and enjoy the fresh air.

This offbeat holiday is a lighthearted reminder to stay active (or get that way).

According to the American Heart Association, the benefits of walking include:

“Lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, dementia and Alzheimer’s, several types of cancer, and some complications of pregnancy
Better sleep, including improvements in insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea
Improved cognition, including memory, attention and processing speed
Less weight gain, obesity and related chronic health conditions
Better bone health and balance, with less risk of injury from falls
Fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety
Better quality of life and sense of overall well-being”

The good news is that you can begin a walking program, no matter your age. Just be sure to check with your physician for guidance, first.

If you haven’t been walking or doing another form of exercise, start slowly. Anything you do is beneficial to your health.

Get your daily steps done in increments – a brisk walk of ten minutes here and fifteen minutes there add up.

To get in a 30 minute walk, simply lace up your walking shoes and walk 15 minutes in one direction.

After 15 minutes, turn around and walk back to the starting point. That’s it! You just took the first steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

How To Celebrate National Take Your Pants For A Walk Day

Depending on which hemisphere you live in, you’ll want to celebrate the day by walking in shorts (Northern hemisphere) or long pants and a warm coat (Southern hemisphere).

Stroll through a nearby park, walk a sun dappled trail through the woods, or meander alongside a stream. The point is to get up off the couch and get outside.

Here are some ways to make the most of National Take Your Pants For A Walk Day:

Soak up the sunshine (wear your sunscreen!).

Take a camera and capture a beautiful scene.

Look for something whimsical and out of the ordinary – like this fairy garden I came across on a hike through a nearby park.

Safety First On National Take Your Pants For A Walk Day!

We want you to be safe while you and your pants are out walking, so be sure to:

Bring your cell phone in case you have an unforeseen problem while you are out.
Wear sturdy shoes with good tread.
Pay attention to your surroundings so you don’t trip and fall. This is particularly important if you are talking to someone while you are walking (either on the phone or in person).
Make yourself visible by wearing bright colored clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials (especially on arms, legs, and feet) or use a flashlight at night.
Never assume drivers see you; they could be distracted or impaired. It’s best to make eye contact with drivers to make sure you are seen, and to generally be aware of your surroundings – particularly when crossing the street.
Be prepared for the summer heat, it can be dangerous if you are an older adult. Take a bottle of water along with you, wear light-weight clothing, wear sunscreen, and put on a broad brimmed hat.

However you decide to celebrate National Take Your Pants For A Walk Day, make it fun. And afterwards, pat yourself on the back for taking some steps towards better health.