Mouthpiece: Put your best foot forward

Walk Edinburgh Week is there to be enjoyed, says Paul Edie

INCREASINGLY busy lives mean that more and more of us rely on motorised transport for even the shortest of journeys. Although sometimes making life easier, sitting in a car or on a bus is not really the healthiest option - experts claim that just 30 minutes of activity a day can bring a host of health benefits.

During Walk Edinburgh Week, I would like you to dig out your trainers and walk your journeys instead. Not only will you be rewarded by the health benefits, but a stroll could open your eyes to the architectural wonders of this beautiful city.

Walking is said to reduce the chance of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and obesity. It can also help mental health by tackling depression and improving sleep and concentration. A lunchtime walk can also help to improve productivity of staff in the afternoon. Best of all, it's cheaper than the gym and there are numerous social and educational benefits as well.

Walk Edinburgh Week is made up of 26 different group walks, which are free, and include: an introduction to the history of Holyrood Park, a meander beside the Water of Leith, a woodland expedition up and through Corstorphine Hill, and a history trail around Riccarton. With some suitable for wheelchairs and prams, the walks range from easy to the more challenging.

Walk Edinburgh Week launches with the "Walk-Ed" fair in Princes Street Gardens on Friday, May 20, from noon- 3pm. Activities include led walks in and around the gardens, plus a healthy lifestyle fair with free activities such as Zumba, sumo wrestling, tai-chi, movement to music and lawn tennis.

The project is jointly funded by Edinburgh City Council, NHS Lothian and Paths for All. See the council website, www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news, for more details.

• Councillor Paul Edie is health and social care convener at Edinburgh City Council.