RESIDENTS in Worcestershire are being urged to take part in a major campaign launched today to promote walking as part of a healthy lifestyle.

The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists (SCP) is organising the 10,000 Steps to Health and Fitness campaign to raise awareness of foot health in the UK as part of its Feet for Life Month, which runs throughout June.

Participants will be asked to measure the number of steps they take in a day using a pedometer.

The results will be collated and used to compare different age groups and professions, as well as gauging how healthy we are as a nation.

The idea behind the campaign is based on the Japanese philosophy of manpo-kei, which literally means 10,000 steps to fitness.

It was developed in Japanese walking clubs 40 years ago and suggests that 10,000 steps a day is all the exercise that is needed for good health.

Healthier

"Walking is a form of exercise that not only keeps you fit, but reduces the incidence of heart disease, diabetes and stroke - by up to a half - and helps you live a longer and healthier life," said a SCP spokeswoman.

"So leave those high heels at home, and get walking to work!"

For more information call the SCP on 0845 450 3737.