Walk your way to a healthier you
Stepping into a healthier lifestyle may be easier than you think. A short, brisk walk is an easy, relaxing and free way to not only make your day better, but can also help improve your health and trim your waistline. Today is National Walking day, so check out these 6 benefits of walking that may be surprising, and get walking!
- Walking helps you maintain a heathy weight.
You’ll burn around 75 calories simply by walking at 2mph for 30 minutes. Adding frequency, length and speed to your walks over time can help you burn calories even faster!
- Walking can prevent or manage conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
A 30 minute walk per day lowers blood pressure and cholesterol - and is proven to reduce risk of stroke by up to 40%.
- Walking Improves your mood.
Walking releases feel-good endorphins, while reducing stress and anxiety. Plus, fresh air is always a relaxing way to start or end a busy day!
- Walking gives you energy.
Walking improves circulation and increases oxygen supply, which gives you the extra energy boost you need to get through the post-lunch drowsiness.
- Walking strengthens bones.
Walking can can stop the loss of bone mass with osteoporosis and reduce the risk of hip fractures for post-menopausal women.
- Walking tones up legs, glutes and abs.
To get some definition in your legs and lift your bum muscles, try a brisk walk with uphill areas. Paying attention to your posture while walking (head up, tightened stomach muscles) can tone your abs and waist as well.
SOURCES: