Physical activity really doesn’t need to be complicated. Something as simple as a daily brisk walk can help you live a healthier life. But the faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits. The great thing is that walking is free and one of the best ways to get active again.
Walking is not only a fantastic way to boost your weight loss it is also brilliant for your mental health. Sadly walking isn’t always the quickest way to make it from point A to B. But walking should not be seen as a chore. The benefits of walking for your body and mind are numerous. Let’s look at the health benefits of walking and find out why it is perfect for your weight loss journey.
1. Walking helps to reduce stress
Research has shown that walking helps to promote the release of brain chemicals called endorphins that stimulate relaxation and improve our mood. Walking does not have to be done at a fast pace to have stress-relieving benefits. Even a stroll at a comfortable pace promotes relaxation.
Try walking with a friend so you can have a good chat about the tough parts of life.. remember stress causes us to over eat.. which will certainly not help with weight loss.
2. Walking helps to burn calories
- walking speed
- distance covered
- terrain
- your weight
Get yourself a good step tracker which also keeps track of calories burned. You don’t need to spend a fortune.. I am loving this AcclaFit Smart watch for tracking steps, calories etc.
3. Walking can lower your blood pressure
Being active can help to lower blood pressure and prevent high blood pressure. This helps to lower your risk of heart problems in the future. Studies show that a brisk 30 minute walk per day can be as effective as medication to reduce blood pressure.
4. Walking can ease joint pain
Walking can help protect the joints, including your knees and hips. That’s because it helps lubricate and strengthen the muscles that support the joints. Walking may also provide benefits for people living with arthritis, such as reducing pain.
5. Walking helps you to discover new places
Discover new places in your local area or make a list of places you have always wanted to visit. Enjoy new scenery, take photos and share them on social media.
6. Walking can help to beat those cravings
Exercise can provide some cognitive stimulation that interferes with thoughts about cravings, and the discipline to regularly take walks to circumvent cravings might also improve the ability to follow through with healthy food choices. So if you are craving sweet foods or that bag of crisps, lace up and get out for a walk.
7. Walking can boost immune function
Walking can actually help to protect you during cold and flu season. A study of over 1,000 men and women found that those who walked at least 20 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week, had 43% fewer sick days than those who exercised once a week or less. Also if they did get sick, it was for a shorter duration, and their symptoms were milder.
8. Walking sets a good example…
No matter how much my children moan I always encourage them to walk to and from school each day. Usually the only time we go in the car is when its torrential rain! This sets a good example and hopefully sets them on a good track of having a healthy lifestyle. My fear will always be them suffering with their weight the same as I have my entire life.
9. Walking can increase your energy levels
Walking is a type of cardiovascular physical activity, which increases your heart rate. It helps to boost energy levels by releasing certain hormones like endorphins and delivering oxygen throughout the body.
How often and for how long should I be walking?
To get the health benefits, try to walk for at least 30 minutes as briskly as you can on most days of the week. ‘Brisk’ means that you can still talk but not sing, and you may be puffing slightly.
Remember to make walking a pleasure, not a chore.
- Wear headphones and listen to your favourite music or audio book.
- Ask a friend to join you
- Try new places and enjoy the scenery
- Walk at different times of the day so it does not become a chore
- Above all keep safe, always walk in a well lit area, carry your phone fully charged and tell someone where you are going.