Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) is asking its employees to take a step toward better health by participating in the National Walk@Lunch Day on April 25.

The walk is part of a growing national workplace fitness effort created in response to recent studies that show Americans do not have time during their day to exercise. Because most people's schedules are built around their workdays, the National Walk@Lunch Day is designed to fit into – not compete with – their daily schedule.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates the cost to treat illness and chronic disease caused by inactive lifestyles is nearly $1,000 for every family in America, every year. Simply getting 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as a brisk walk, at least five times a week has significant health benefits. It can lower the risk of developing or dying from cardiovascular disease, hypertension or type 2 diabetes, and improve the health of muscles, bones and joints.

National Walk@Lunch Day is a component of WalkingWorks, a Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association physical activity program designed to help Americans live healthier lives and reduce unnecessary medical costs due to physical inactivity. The WalkingWorks program was developed in partnership with the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.

BCBSND is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.