Alberta’s Winter Walk Day kicks off Wednesday
Posted Jan 29, 2023 12:47 pm.
Last Updated Feb 1, 2023 5:12 pm.
Alberta’s Winter Walk Day (WWD) started Wednesday, and Albertans are invited to “open the door and go for it.”
WWD is a province-wide initiative to get people to stay active and healthy during the province’s long winter, promoting the health benefits of walking. Albertans are encouraged to walk at least 15 minutes outside.
There are many benefits associated with walking outside in the winter, including maintaining strong bones, staying motivated, improving our mood, and burning calories.
“Step Up, Alberta! Stay active this winter with Winter Walk Day, February 1st, 2023. Challenge your neighbours, log your time, bundle up and have fun!” said WWD in a tweet.
“Walking in winter is good for the body and mind!”
Walking in winter is good for the body and mind! We encourage everyone of all ages and stages to join in our #WinterWalkDay on February 1st, 2023. https://t.co/MJ1Urwbl1l pic.twitter.com/8PoBA9BzcM
— Winter Walk Day (@WinterWalkDay) January 13, 2023
Meanwhile, the Government of Alberta took to Twitter to encourage people to enjoy our cold temperatures.
“This initiative is great motivation to get moving during our long winter. Over 100,000 Albertans participated last year,” the government tweeted.
On February 1, celebrate @winterwalkday and spend time outside. Even a short walk counts!
This initiative is great motivation to get moving during our long winter. Over 100,000 Albertans participated last year. Register at https://t.co/glQfBbVsP4 pic.twitter.com/O2lxxfhPsx
— Alberta Government (@YourAlberta) January 28, 2023
Meanwhile, Calgarians can take advantage of the activity through taking walks in the city’s well-lit downtown, Kensington, Inglewood, East Village, and 17th Avenue.
In addition, the city’s walkable paths and parks are another bonus to discover, such as the Devonian Gardens at the Core Centre, Fish Creek Provincial Park, The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre, Prince’s Island Park, St. Patrick’s Island, and many more available on the city’s website.
The city encourages people to check the temperature and dress up accordingly.
“Temperatures and weather conditions in Calgary vary day to day, season to season, and even hour to hour. Layered clothing in any season is a great way to be prepared for changes in weather conditions for a comfortable walking experience,” the city said on its website.
“You can expect winter temperatures to range from approximately -20 C to 20 C. Long pants, layered shirts, down jackets, toques, and gloves are great choices. Winter boots with good tread are essential for walking in the city as sidewalk and pathway conditions can be snow covered and slippery. Sunglasses are also a smart choice in winter months as the sun’s reflection off the snow can create a bright environment.”
The town of Okotoks, is also preparing its residents to participate.
“Join us for Winter walk day on Wednesday, February 1st (starting at 6:00 a.m.) for a walk around the Centennial Arenas walking track,” the town tweeted. ”
“Log your steps and time to count towards our goal of 23 hours of collective activity!”
Join us for Winter Walk Day on Wednesday, February 1st (starting at 6:00am) for a walk around the Centennial Arenas Walking Track. ????
Log your steps and time to count towards our goal of 23 hours of collective activity! pic.twitter.com/F2ANzHPiOn
— Town of Okotoks (@townofokotoks) January 27, 2023
Last year more than 800 organizations and 100,000 Albertans took part.
