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NewsCenter5 Launches Walking Club

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino A Charter Member

VIDEO A Message From Heather Kahn And Mayor Menino

There is no better or easier way to take a step towards health than to begin a walking program.

This spring, NewsCenter 5 is asking viewers to "join the club!" We want to get as many of you walking as possible.

And to show you how easy it is, the Mayor of Boston, Thomas Menino, has become a member.

"I've put some weight on over the last year and would like to lose that weight for the summertime." says Menino. "Walking is good for your heart also. And in my business, you have to have a strong heart. "

Walking has many known health benefits, including reducing blood pressure and stress, toning muscles, and some weight loss.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, this benefit can be achieved by walking 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

For women, studies have shown walking just three hours a week can decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke by 40 percent.

Take A Walk Around Our Site

Heather Kahn Invites You To Join Mayor Menino And Wife Start Routine Check Out Some Helpful Walking Tips Join Our Discussion Keep A Chart Of Your Progress

Here's all you need to do to join. First, carefully look at TheBostonChannel.com It has important information including a simple test to take before you begin a walking program.

There are also tips on how to get the most benefit from your walk, how to safely increase your walk, how to prevent injury and how to stick with it.

Then, log into our feedback site, Five Forum. Let us know who you are and why you are walking. We'll be choosing some of our viewers to profile in upcoming segments on NewsCenter 5.

You can also get more information on walking from Walking Magazine.

More information on the benefits of exercise and the heart is available at The American Heart Association.

Thanks for joining the Channel 5 Walking Club!

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