Related Resources • Walking - the Miracle Cure • Walk of Life Program • CDC: Walk More, Faster!

Elsewhere on the Web • HealthierUS.gov • Radio Address

US President George W. Bush urged Americans to start walking and exercising - for the good of the country as well as themselves - in his radio address June 22, 2002.

"When it comes to your health, even little steps can make a big difference. If just 10 percent of adults began walking regularly, Americans could save $5.6 billion in costs related to heart disease."

"And research suggests we can reduce cancer deaths by one-third simply by changing our diets and getting more exercise."

President Bush's comments are backed by the research findings of Harvard University's Nurses Health Study, which has tracked the health habits and disease susceptibility of its study participants since 1976.

"Walking 30 minutes a day can improve your health. Playing a game in the backyard will help parents and children get fit and spend more quality time with each other. And regularly hiking through a park can add years to your life."

"Exercise is an important part of life and I urge all Americans to make it an important part of your lives. By making minor changes to our lives, we will build a stronger and healthier America." 

The President named former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Lynn Swann as chairman of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and Team USA softball star Dot Richardson as vice chair.  He also debuted a new web site, HealthierUS.gov, to promote heathier diet and physical fitness.

The President "walks the walk," or rather, he runs regularly, works out with weights and eats a healthy diet.  He further demonstrated good health habits by getting a colonoscopy and urging Americans to get regular health checks.

Harvard University epidemiologist Graham Colditz, speaking at a conference in Sydney, said "Just half an hour of walking per week can lower your colon cancer risk by 10 per cent and three hours walking can lower your risk by 60 per cent. Also, the faster you walk, the more benefit," as quoted by "The Australian."

You heard it from the Commander in Chief - Get Moving!

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