Fitness Forum – Is Walking Enough?

With all the possible ways to exercise, did you ever wonder if walking provides any real health benefits?

If walking works for you, it works for me! Truly, fitness all starts with finding something you won’t mind doing! Walking has many hidden benefits that most people overlook because it’s low impact and so easy to get started. Recent studies indicate that frequent walkers have lower rates of heart attacks and strokes than those who don’t walk as often, as well as lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Walking is also is great for keeping the weight off. Most people would never think taking a 30-minute walk during your lunch break or after work could do much good.  That walk can slice off anywhere from 100-200 calories, depending on your pace and how much you weigh. An extra 100-200 calories burned each day can go a long way to prevent weight gain and keep you staying slim, especially if it’s more than you’ve done before.

Another benefit of this simple exercise is that it keeps your bones strong and dense as you age, helping to prevent osteoporosis.

Additionally, walking can do wonders for mental health as well. Going for a walk can be very relaxing and can easily lighten your mood when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. Even better, walking has shown to improve mental clarity and cognition.

So, adding a brisk, 30-minute walk to your daily routine can do wonders for your health in the long run.

Be healthy!