Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise that makes you healthier, helps you lose weight, and becomes more active. The main benefit of walking is that anyone can do it at any age and level of fitness. It’s also good for your heart, head and pocket, since you don’t need anything extra and you don’t have to pay for expensive gyms.
You can skip your commute and walk to work or schools and stores. In some cases, walking may be more effective than running in reducing the risk of heart disease. Walking not only minimizes your risk of heart disease, but it can also help you lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of many chronic diseases. A daily walk of 15 to 30 minutes can be equivalent to 150 minutes of weekly exercise.
Walking has many benefits both physical and mental:
- Research shows that regular walking can change your nervous system and you will experience a decrease in anger and aggression.
- Exposes you to sunlight which can help decrease Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
- It can also make you socially active as you can take a walk with someone in particular like your friend, relatives, relatives and neighbors. This helps improve your mood and reduce your stress levels.
- It can also be beneficial for people who suffer from insomnia. Going for a morning walk outside will help you tune into your natural circadian rhythms, which can help you fall asleep faster and more deeply.
- Moderate and low impact walking can help reduce symptoms and lessen pain for the person with medical conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.
- It can also help strengthen bones and may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- For people who suffer from joint problems, walking can be beneficial.
- As we age, walking may be important in reducing the risk of dementia and other brain disorders.
- You may be connected, but walking backwards can help you improve your cognition, helping you think faster while standing up.
- Regular walking can also help stimulate the part of the brain that is involved in learning and verbal memory.
- Regular walks help establish a routine that you’re more likely to continue with your other activities.
- Adding music to your walking experience can be a great way to de-stress as well as help you get into a rhythm for faster walking.
So put on your walking shoes and step into a regimen of good mental and physical health!
