The Health Benefits of Living in Calgary’s Walkable Communities
Over the past several years, great strides have taken place in constructing walkable communities within Calgary. These communities are designed intentionally to make lives more convenient, healthy, and sustainable; one would find no reason to get in a car to visit stores, parks, schools, or restaurants. The advantages of residing in these locations far exceed mere convenience, however. For many, the decision to live in a walkable neighborhood equates with a healthy, vivid lifestyle.
Now, let us look at the various health benefits that could be accrued from the most walkable communities in Calgary:
Boosting Physical Health One Step at a Time
Perhaps the most obvious health benefit of living in a walkable community is an uptick in physical activity. Living in a city predominantly known for its sprawled suburbs, many Calgarians are accustomed to relying on their cars for even short trips. In walkable neighborhoods, however, the design encourages people to leave their cars behind instead of walking or cycling.
Walking daily is a simple and effective exercise for maintaining heart health, strengthening muscles, and managing weight effectively. On the contrary, research has also denoted that residents living in walking-keen neighborhoods will more likely fulfill the daily exercise requirements.
Supporting Mental Health
The benefits of a walking community are not only good for physical fitness but also great for mental health. A walkable neighborhood with green spaces allows residents to reduce stress, clear their minds, and improve their moods. Spending time outdoors, either walking in the morning or evening, helps reduce stress and anxiety levels. Walking also releases body chemicals, such as endorphins, which are considered natural mood enhancers, making residents even happier and more relaxed. In a world where the perils of poor mental health are an increasingly prevailing feature, easy access to calming, walkable environments can make a major difference.
Better Air Quality, Better Respiratory Health
Most walkable communities have fewer cars on the road; this generally means better air quality. Like many growing cities, Calgary struggles with pollution, particularly in highly trafficked areas. However, air pollution can decrease substantially in walkable neighbourhoods where residents often walk or bike instead of driving.
Strengthening Social Connections
A feeling of belonging and existence in society has a lot to do with the general mental state of an individual. As loneliness globally worsens and gradually becomes a societal problem, the more walkable areas function as a natural antidote, forcing people to interact with others face-to-face daily. Whether this is continuing to talk with your neighbor on the morning walk or other activities of a community nature, these areas promote a sense of being that improves social and emotional well-being.
Living in one of Calgary’s walkable communities is an investment in health that extends beyond lifestyle decision-making. The benefits of walkability range from physical activity and improved mental health to social contact and clean air. And as the city continues to grow, so does the need to create vibrant, health-driven neighborhoods.
Are you not seeking ways to improve your health and your life? Move into one of Calgary’s many communities where you can get around on foot. The pathway to a healthier, happier life may be no more complicated than the walk out your front door.
