Feet first: The fun and benefits of walking to class

By Gracey Kettler ’27

When heading to class, many students face a common dilemma: should they walk or drive? While hopping in the car might seem like the easiest option, especially if you’re running late or live off campus, driving comes with some drawbacks. Embracing walking as a habit not only benefits your health but also positively impacts the environment and your daily routine.

Environmental Benefits

Choosing to walk instead of driving can significantly benefit the environment. Even short car trips produce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, contributing to greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. By opting to walk, you help reduce the amount of CO2 produced. You might think, “I’m just driving across the street; it doesn’t matter,” but all those short trips add up. Driving short distances wastes energy and produces unnecessary emissions. Cars also emit nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds, which can degrade air quality. Walking, on the other hand, produces zero emissions, helping to maintain cleaner air and a healthier environment for everyone.

Health Benefits

Walking, even for short distances, is an easy and effective way to incorporate exercise into your day. Regular walking improves overall health, keeping your body strong and your cardiovascular system healthy.

Walking is also an excellent stress reducer. Being outside, enjoying sunlight and fresh air (or even clouds and rain) can significantly decrease stress and anxiety. It provides a chance to unplug from digital distractions and take a moment for yourself. The relaxing motion of walking, combined with exposure to nature, can boost your mood, enhance mental clarity, and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Financial and Social Benefits

While driving may seem convenient, the costs can quickly add up. Walking is free, while gas is not. By walking to class, you save money on fuel, potential parking fees, and car maintenance. These savings can accumulate significantly over time, especially for students on a tight budget. This allows you to use your car for longer trips or when it’s truly needed, rather than for short, unnecessary drives.

Walking to class also offers valuable opportunities for social interaction. You get to stop and interact with friends, classmates, and neighbors, building a sense of community and growing personal relationships. These brief social interactions can improve your mood and make your day more enjoyable. Additionally, walking through campus allows you to be more aware of your surroundings, notice changes or events happening around you, and feel more connected.

Walking to class is a small change that can make a big difference in your life and the environment. It promotes better health, reduces environmental impact, saves money, and enhances your social interactions and overall well-being. The next time you are struggling to decide whether to walk or drive, consider the many benefits of walking. Try leaving your room just a little earlier to better yourself and the environment.