Walking is a normal activity and one that many people do on an everyday basis. However, very few people know of the myriad benefits of walking , and the effect it has on their health and overall well-being. A gentle, low-impact type of exercise, walking can help lower risk of certain diseases, strengthen immune system, improve glycemic control, reduce stress and so on. Even better, it’s easy, free and ideal for people of all ages & most abilities.
Helps Reduces Body Fat
If you’re looking to lose weight, then you should consider including short, frequent walks in your exercise routine. While it won’t get you shredded or ripped, or might not be as mechanistically effective like other types of exercise, frequent walking can help anyone with 2 functioning legs and knee joints to lose some body fat. This will go a long way towards helping you achieve your weight loss goals.
Strengthens the Heart
Research shows that regular walking can reduce a person’s risk of heart disease as well as stroke. It cuts down on the levels of the bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing those of the good cholesterol (HDL). Moreover, it helps keep your blood pressure in check. All these can help ensure normal functioning of your heart & circulatory system.
Lowers Risk of Other Diseases
Apart from heart disease, developing a walking habit has been shown to help minimize the risk of developing asthma, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancers. Studies show that taking more steps daily can help ward off diabetes and lower the risk of developing cancer of the womb, breast and colon by up to 20 per cent.
Can boost vitamin D levels
When you walk outside in daylight, you will boost your body’s vitamin D stores. Vitamin D is a relatively hard to obtain nutrient from food, with the majority of it being synthesized by the body from exposure to sunlight. Walking helps expose more skin surface to the sun, which can in turn help you produce sufficient amounts of the vitamin.
Reduces Stress and Depression
Another way in which benefits of walking help us is by lowering stress levels. Like other forms of exercises, this activity triggers the release of endorphins, the natural happy drugs of the body. Moreover, it allows you to have some time alone to meditate and reflect on your life .Walking also boosts your energy levels, helps mitigate fatigue and improves one’s memory. This, over time, can improve your mood and build your self-esteem.
