There is a movement underway to encourage people to burn off their Christmas calories by going for a walk on Boxing day.

The average Christmas meal, which includes turkey and all the trimmings, with Christmas puddings, hams, sausage rolls, plus all the snacks before, and the cake and chocolates after, amounts to around 2,000 calories. This is 2/3 of an moderately active mans daily calorie requirement. A brisk walk can help to burn some of the calories off. In addition to burning some calories it can help lift spirits on Boxing day, when many people feel a little down after the excitement has worn off and the sugar levels start falling.

One problem our society is currently suffering from is that many people are just less active than now that previous generations were. This is causing people to be both unfit and overweight. Many parents feel that it is the responsibility of the school to encourage children to exercise, however the schools and government say that children’s lack of interest in physical activities starts in the family. So to get our nation fitter and healthy again, families need to encourage each other to do things. A family walk on Christmas day is a great way to do this.

Walking for as little as 1 mile, which should take only 20 minutes, will help you manage your weight. Walking 2 miles will work better though. Family walks can also help to bring families together. Walking is a time to talk too – just ensure nobody brings an iPod.

Many people use the excuse that there are no free facilities available in their area to get fit, however walking is an effective way to keep fit and manage your weight. There really is no excuse for not going for a walk. Just remember to leave early, before it gets dark.