Four Benefits of Walking
Posted: Jul 05 in Weight Loss Blog by Staff
If you are looking for an easy way to begin a healthy exercise routine, start with a walk. Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that can be done just about anywhere and by anyone. This type of physical activity offers many health benefits, and only requires a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
Great for Beginners
Walking is the perfect way to begin your new fitness program. Whether new to exercise or getting back into a routine, walking is a great low-impact form of exercise to get started. Ideal for the elderly, overweight, or injured, walking does not require a great deal of exertion. You can start out slowly and intensify your workout as needed.
Convenience
Walking is the most convenient form of exercise. It can be done anywhere and at anytime. You will want to make sure to find a safe location and time. Walking can easily be worked into any type of schedule. You can walk in the morning, afternoon or evening. You may even want to walk more than once a day. Walking requires no equipment, but you may want to bring a friend or some music.
Choose a location that inspires success. Check out local parks or trails in your area, where you feel safe. If you find a peaceful location with appealing scenery, you will be more inclined to continue walking. Shopping centers are also a safe option, especially on rainy days. When time is an issue, take a quick walk in your neighborhood.
Physical Benefits
Physical activity does not have to be vigorous to see benefits. The simple act of walking gets the blood flowing, improving circulation. Walking helps to decrease your risk of diabetes by lowering blood sugar. Walking improves cardiovascular fitness by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure.
Walking at least 30 minutes a day can help with weight loss. Walking burns calories and increases metabolism, which help you to lose weight. For a more intense calorie-burning walk, incorporate hills or stairs into your walk.
Walking is a great way to relieve arthritis symptoms. As you walk, there is an increase of blood flow to muscles and cartilage. This increased blood flow adds to your strength and flexibility, relieving some of the stiffness caused by arthritis. Over time, your range of motion and flexibility will improve.
Mental Benefits
Walking improves brain function. While exercising, more oxygen is going to the brain. The more blood flow and oxygen to the brain, the better your cognitive function will be. Your focus becomes clearer and memory improves.
If your creativity is suffering, go for a walk. Walking can clear your head and re-focus your thoughts. It would be beneficial to take a short walk during lunch. Even a short walk will give you a burst of energy and clear your mind.
Walking each day will help you to fight depression. Exercise causes your brain to release chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins have the power to change your perception of your pain and stress. An overwhelming sense of happiness may come over you, improving your mood.
Challenge yourself to walk a little everyday. If you skip a day or two, start back immediately. The key to continued success is to start out slowly, and gradually add more steps. Before you know it, walking will be a part of your normal routine.