Walking the walk – Dr Robyn Littlewood and Natalie Cook inspire first time running event participants
Health and Wellbeing Queensland Chief Executive, Dr Robyn Littlewood, and five-time Olympian, Natalie Cook OAM, have teamed up to demonstrate the power of taking care of your health and wellbeing, one step at a time. Nat believes the reason walking is such a powerful physical activity is because it’s so easy.
“I actually think the fittest I was in my life, outside being an Olympian, was when I would walk around the suburb with my daughter in her pram. Even when I was strapped for time, I would always find a way to get out for a quick walk and get some fresh air. It’s so great for your overall physical and mental fitness,” said Nat.
“So many people doubt walking as ‘impactful’ exercise, but even just a small walk down the street can work wonders!”
Robyn says walking is a great activity to increase energy levels, reduce stress and connect with others.
“Walking is good for you for so many reasons. It’s free, it’s always available when you are, it’s good for your physical fitness, your health and your mind. It creates a positive and calming way to begin or end a day”.
“Whether you walk with your friends around your local park, along the beach, in your street, by yourself or with someone special, it is an activity that provides such great benefits for people of all ages. I have never heard anyone say ‘I really regret that walk!’”.
“Time spent walking uses more than twice the number of calories compared to sitting, and keeps your heart, lungs, muscles and bones fit, strong and healthy,” said Robyn.
The two met as part of the Boost Your Healthy program last year where they coordinated activities and challenges to keep Queenslanders fit and healthy through the pandemic, including the Billion Steps Challenge, achieved by Queenslanders in just 32 days.
Now, they’re calling out for locals to join the Sunday Mail Transurban Bridge to Brisbane and continue their health and fitness journeys.
“Go for it! I have a feeling this year will be a lovely, fun, supportive and celebratory event, more than ever before. There is nothing better than the Brisbane community coming together. I wouldn’t miss it,” said Robyn.
