Walking may seem like a very simple activity, and many of us do not recognize how important it is.
You may think you get enough walking; however, studies have shown that a lot of people walk fewer steps than recommended.
Walking is a simple, yet excellent way to improve or maintain your health.
It is considered the best form of exercise for the elderly, people who are overweight, or those who have not exercised in a long time.
It is beneficial to people of all ages, helps prevent certain diseases, and even improves the general quality of your life.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF WALKING?
- Improves Heart Health: Going on regular walks helps to decrease the risk of heart conditions and stroke. Walking, especially brisk walking, has been shown to reduce the risk of serious heart diseases by up to 19%. It does so by strengthening the heart muscle and lowering blood pressure.
- Control of Blood Sugar: Brisk walking helps to lower your blood sugar level and improve how well your body uses insulin, which is a problem in people with high blood sugar. Going on a short walk after eating helps reduce blood sugar levels.
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- Helps Maintain a Healthy Body Weight: People who are overweight can benefit from walking. This physical activity, if done for about 30 minutes daily or on most days, is a very effective weight loss technique as it helps burn calories. Walking regularly also ensures the new weight is maintained.
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- Improves Mental Health: Walking, especially when done outside, positively impacts a person's mental health. Walking in parks and through nature has been shown to boost creativity. The increased flow of blood to the brain and body decreases stress levels and can also improve sleep. It also decreases anxiety, depression, and boosts self-confidence.
- Decreases Joint Pain: People who suffer from arthritis can benefit from walking, as it helps protect the joints and strengthen the muscles that provide support to the joints.
- Improves The Body's Immunity: People who walk regularly, compared to those who lead sedentary lives, have a decreased risk of falling ill and when they do, their symptoms are less severe.
- Increases Your Energy Level: If you are tired and need a quick energy boost, going for a walk can help energize you as this activity increases the release of hormones, such as cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, which boost energy levels.
WHAT IS AN EFFECTIVE WALK?
Any type of walking can have a positive impact on your general health. However, there are some recommendations to help make walking more effective. Brisk walking or power walking for about 30 minutes per day or on most days is most effective in helping to improve your health and maintain good health.
In brisk or power walking, you can talk comfortably, but you should find it difficult to sing. If you can sing while walking, your walk is not that brisk. If your goal is to lose weight, more calories can be burned walking up a slope than on a flat surface.
SUMMARY
Walking is an activity that can be incorporated into our daily lives. Sedentary lifestyles have contributed to a lot of chronic illness and deaths. The body requires activity, and walking provides a wide range of health benefits. During bad weather, walking can be done indoors on a treadmill. To get the best experience, prepare yourself by getting shoes with good foot support, wearing comfortable clothes, and staying hydrated. Also, remember to wear sunscreens, and walk in areas that are safe and where you can be easily seen by vehicles.
