[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 29, Number 18 (Monday, May 10, 1993)]
[Page 774]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 6558--National Walking Week, 1993

 May 6, 1993

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Medical research confirms that regular physical activity benefits 
human health in many ways. Exercise can help to prevent and manage 
coronary heart disease, hypertension, noninsulin-dependent diabetes, 
osteoporosis, and mental health problems, such as depression and 
anxiety. Regular exercise is also linked with lower rates of colon 
cancer and stroke. Light to medium exercise for at least 30 minutes each 
day enhances our lives by improving our physical fitness and our health.
    Sustained walking is a wonderful way to exercise at minimal risk and 
little cost. Millions of Americans enjoy walking for a variety of 
reasons: as a time for private reflection; an occasion to enjoy the 
company of friends; a form of public demonstration; or as an 
invigorating activity and sport. Exercise such as walking is a key 
component of our Nation's prevention agenda, which envisions a 
healthier, vibrant America. Regular walking is a form of self-care that 
can contribute to the reduction of preventable death, disease, and 
disability; reduce health care costs; improve overall energy and 
efficiency; and promote long and healthy lives. Americans across the 
country are experiencing the joys and benefits of regular walking as 
policymakers, legislators, and citizens work to improve trails and 
protect natural environments that make walking pleasurable and safe.
    The Congress, by Public Law 102-474, has designated the week of May 
2 through May 8, 1993, as ``National Walking Week'' and has requested 
the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this week.
    Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United 
States of America, do hereby proclaim the week of May 2 through May 8, 
1993, as National Walking Week. I invite the Governors of the 50 States 
and the appropriate officials of all other areas under the jurisdiction 
of the United States to issue similar proclamations. I encourage the 
American people to join with health and recreation professionals, 
private voluntary associations, and other concerned organizations in 
observing this week with appropriate programs and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of 
May, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-three, and of 
the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
seventeenth.
                                            William J. Clinton

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:57 a.m., May 7, 1993]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on May 7, and it was published in the Federal Register on May 
10.