Adults in the West Midlands are taking 25 per cent fewer trips on foot compared with a decade ago, according to new data released today. The analysis, drawn by Diabetes UK from the National Travel Survey, reveals that local people made an average of 181 journeys every year by foot in 2013/14, a number that has gone down significantly since 2003/04 when 241 journeys were being made annually by foot, on average, in the West Midlands.
In England, the average number of trips people make on foot has fallen by 18 per cent, with an average of 202 trips being made per person in 2013/14 compared with the average of 247 in 2003/04.
The charity analysed this data in the lead up to its London Bridges Challenge event which takes place on Sunday 11 October. It is inviting people in the region to join the challenge which will see people walk 10 miles across 13 of London’s iconic bridges.
Peter Shorrick, Diabetes UK Regional Manager for the Midlands, said: “There is strong evidence that you are much more likely to stick to an activity if you can incorporate it into your daily life, and walking is a simple and easy way to increase your daily exercise. Physical activity, combined with a healthy diet, can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. For people living with diabetes, getting plenty of exercise and eating healthily are key to managing their condition well so they have the best chance of a long and healthy life.
“We therefore hope that people in the West Midlands will join us and take part in the London Bridges Challenge event. While 10 miles is a real walking challenge, it is one that is possible for all the family, so it’s a great chance to get active while raising vital funds that will help us make a difference to those at risk of and living with diabetes.
“Lots of entrants choose to visit London from around the UK for the event as it is also a great way to see the sights, crossing over famous bridges like Millennium and Tower, and seeing everything from the Houses of Parliament to Shakespeare’s Globe. Why would you travel underground when walking above ground gives views like that?”
