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Day of walking
Today is the first “Day of Walking” in Austria!
Walking, strolling, hurrying or strolling – walking is the most natural way to get around.
This “Austria on Foot” campaign day is intended to motivate municipalities and cities to inform citizens about the benefits of walking and encourage them to consciously walk more. After all, walking is not only the most environmentally friendly form of transportation, but also one of the healthiest.
To mark this day, we are sharing a few arguments for walking with you:
Walking is medicine! Already from 4,000 steps per day can have a positive effect on your physical health. Studies show that regular walking can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Every journey begins and ends with walking. Even if we travel by car, bike or public transport, we (almost) always cover the first and last few meters on foot. Walking is therefore an essential part of any form of transportation.
Each course is individual. Everyone walks in their own way. Walking is individual, our gait is as unique as our fingerprint. Every step is an expression of our body, our emotions and our personality.1
Walking creates value. Walking is attributed a gross value added of around 564 million euros.2 It is not only healthy and sustainable, but also makes an economic contribution to society.
But walking needs a good infrastructure.
For more people to enjoy walking safely, a well thought-out infrastructure is needed: wide footpaths that are also easy to use with baby carriages or luggage, clear guidance systems, safe crossings, lighting and places to linger – for example with benches or shaded areas. Walking is only a real alternative in everyday life if it is comfortable and safe.
Let’s take this day as an opportunity to think consciously about walking and our sidewalks – and make them better together.
Further information on the campaign day: Walking as an experience in everyday life – treat yourself to the joy
1Rogall, T. (2011): The art of walking, Nymphenburger Verlag
2 BMK: Walking as an economic factor: Short report: Economic effects of walking
and hiking. Vienna, BMK 2023 – Report
