Walking can burn calories, ward off obesity and reduce the risk of heart disease, and it might also have significant stress-relieving benefits.
People who regularly walk also have improved circulation, less arthritis pain, and generally are in a better mood. That’s why more people should take the time to walk.
The Benefits Of Walking
Walking has several distinct benefits for everyone. Even as little of 30-minutes of walking a day can have a positive effect on a person’s physical, emotional, and mental health.
Below are just some of the benefits a person can expect when they put on their walking shoes and hit the sidewalk.
Improved Circulation
One of the biggest benefits of walking is that it improves circulation. People who improve their circulation through walking have lower blood pressure, improved organ function, and have a better feeling of physical well being. Men and women with improved circulation also have less of a chance of suffering a stroke.
Improved Bone Strength
People who regularly walk also have increased bone mass. This means they are less likely to suffer fractures and tend to have less arthritis pain. Post-menopausal women can especially benefit from this increased bone mass. Studies have shown that post-menopausal women who walk for 30-minutes each day have a 40% less chance of suffering a hip fracture.
Improved Sleep
Sleeping better is another benefit of walking. Studies have shown that people who walk on a regular basis are less likely to suffer insomnia than people who don’t walk at all.
Walking can also aid in Weightloss
Another benefit of walking is that a person will burn more calories. They will not only burn more calories from the act of walking (depending on speed, distance, and terrain) but will also burn more calories when they’re at rest. This may make weight loss for some people easier.
Stress relief and reduced anxiety
Walking boosts stress-busting endorphins, which can reduce stress hormones and alleviate mild depression. Walking outside for 20-30 minutes several times per week will alleviate stress and give your mind a boost.
Walking also boosts your energy and immune system, lowers blood sugar, and extends your life.
So what are you waiting for? Whether it is a walk in the garden, in a lovely park or on the beachfront, the benefits are yours for the taking! And it is free!