H.R. No. 1182 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Regular physical activity contributes greatly to good health, and the American Heart Association is promoting one of the simplest paths to fitness through the observance of National Start! Walking Day on April 6, 2011; and WHEREAS, For every hour of walking, life expectancy may increase by two hours, according to recent studies; brisk walking for just 30 minutes a day can lower blood pressure, increase HDL "good" cholesterol in the blood, control weight, and control blood sugar through improved use of insulin in the body; all these changes help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke; and WHEREAS, Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease and stroke, are the nation's leading cause of death, as well as a major cause of disability; each year, 1.26 million Americans suffer a new or recurrent coronary attack and nearly 800,000 suffer a new or recurrent stroke; the total direct and indirect costs associated with cardiovascular disease, including lost productivity, are estimated at more than $440 billion for 2010 alone; and WHEREAS, According to the American Heart Association, physically active people save $500 a year in health care costs, and employers can save $16 for every $1 they spend on health and wellness; studies indicate that one of the best investments a company can make is in the health of its employees, and by promoting a culture of physical activity, corporate America can decrease health care costs, increase productivity, and improve the fitness and longevity of the workforce; and WHEREAS, Walking is free, easy, and safe, it has the lowest dropout rate of any type of exercise, and it can result in a vastly improved quality of life; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby recognize April 6, 2011, as National Start! Walking Day and encourage all Texans to take charge of their health by taking time to walk. Lucio III ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1182 was adopted by the House on April 6, 2011, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House