At the start of the New Year, most people seek ways to get healthier. There are a lot of fad diets marketed, as well as quick-fix workouts.
But walking is one tried and true way to improve your health, clear your mind, and keep the weight off. Here are some ways that walking benefits your health.
1. Improve Your Mood
Regular walking, specifically outdoors, helps regulate the nervous system, affecting your mood. It is a low-impact exercise that keeps your mood stable and even.
2. Burn Calories and Lose or Maintain Weight
But don’t let the low-impact aspect of it fool you. Just because it’s low-impact doesn’t mean that it’s low-intensity. You can always speed walk or include hills, but just regular walking, not strolling, has been shown to burn a significant number of calories. It also reduces cortisol levels and, in turn, helps to shrink your waistline.
3. Improve Heart and Cardiovascular Health
We all know that any cardio is really for the health of your heart. But walking specifically has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce risks of heart attacks, and even reduce your risk of serious disease. The key is consistency.
4. Reduce Stress
Exercise can reduce stress levels, but a more sustained, low-impact form can be most beneficial. Add beautiful scenery and fresh air, and you have a great combo. This can even improve brain health.
5. Helps Your Digestive System
Gut health and the digestive system have been a critical focus in the health industry for a while now. Yes, it’s important to focus on what foods you consume to improve the health of your gut, but certain exercises can also help. Walking is a gentle way to engage your abdominal muscles and encourage movement in the GI tract.
How many steps should you aim for per day? An average of 7,000-10,000 steps per day is a great goal, but remember that anything and everything counts. Just think of ways to add steps to your day along with a concentrated daily walk.
Set small goals to start, and eventually establish a regular routine. Consider taking your pet along or even a walking partner. It’s a great time to catch up with a friend. In no time, you will reap all the benefits. Cheers to you as you embark on the journey to a longer, healthier life.
