Get Out and Walk
Getting out of the house and walking is a great exercise and one that nearly anyone can do. All you need is a good pair of shoes and about 30 minutes a day to get the easy health benefits of walking.
To get a good workout all you need to do is walk with purpose. What I mean by that is when you walk move briskly. You don’t have to go so fast that it looks like you are late for a very important meeting. instead just walk at a good pace like you have something important to do. Walking at this pace will also get your heart rate up a little bit. Of course if you feel winded or you start to feel tightness in your chest simply slow down or take a break. Don’t over do it. The important thing is the time. Get out and do it.
Here are the benefits of a good brisk walk:
- It reduces your risk of dying from heart disease or stroke
- It lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, colon cancer, and diabetes
- It lowers high blood pressure (hypertension)
- It protects against falling and bone fractures in older adults
- It may help protect against certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer
- It increases the number of calories your body uses, which helps to control your weight (see BMI Calculator to find your ideal weight)
- It helps control joint swelling and pain from arthritis.
- Helps keep your bones, muscles, and joints healthy
- Reduces anxiety and depression, boosting your mood
- Helps you handle stress
- Helps you feel more energetic
- Helps you sleep better
- Improves your self-esteem
- Gives you an opportunity to socialize actively with friends and family.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, grab from friends, or an MP3 player and get out and get moving. Your body will thank you.
