Turn a working lunch into a walking lunch on Wednesday, April 27 during National Walk at Lunch (NW@L) Day.

NW@L Day is an annual event hosted by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) and YMCAs across the state encouraging Nebraskans to take a few minutes out of their day, put on their sneakers and go for a walk.

Making exercise part of your daily routine provides great health benefits beyond losing weight, said Kathy Nellor, health transformation leader at BCBSNE.

Regular walking can:

  • Decrease the risk of heart attack and Type 2 diabetes
  • Lower cholesterol and blood pressure
  • Reduce stress

“Walking is a simple activity and a great way to be physically active,” said Nellor. “It doesn’t require a gym membership or any equipment; all you need is a pair of tennis shoes and some time.”

BCBSNE encourages all Nebraskans to take the NW@L Day pledge and walk toward better health whenever and wherever they can for 30 minutes on Wednesday, April 27.

Taking the pledge also benefits the community. If 10,000 Nebraskans take the NW@L Day pledge, BCBSNE will donate $5,000 to Special Olympics Nebraska.

In addition, BCBSNE will randomly choose one participating Nebraska school to receive a $1,000 grant for its physical education department.

For the first time since 2019, NW@L Day will be held in person. Meet fellow walkers at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village (2285 S. 67th St.) on Wednesday, April 27 and walk for 30 minutes between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

You can learn more about the event and take the NW@L Day pledge here.

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