5 Ways Walking Can Boost Your Health

Walking is underrated as a form of exercise, but it is a gentle, low-impact activity people of all ages and fitness levels can participate in.

Ready to reap the benefits of walking? Here are five ways walking can boost your health.

1. Helps with Weight Loss

As we get older, our metabolism begins to slow down, and we are more likely to put on weight.

A daily walk will help burn off calories and maintain a healthy weight. Think about how you could incorporate a quick 20 minute stroll into your daily routine, and you’ll shed the pounds in no time.

2. Strengthens Heart

Being active helps to keep your heart in good condition.

Studies have shown that regular brisk walks for around 30 minutes a day will help prevent or manage various heart conditions, including heart disease and high blood pressure.

3. Reduces Risk of Diabetes

Research has shown that regular walking in conjunction with a balanced diet and healthy body weight can prevent up to 60% of type 2 diabetes cases. Getting out for a walk is a great way to manage your weight, so not surprising that it can help reduce your chances of developing this common condition.

In addition, regular walks can help your body control blood sugar levels more effectively as your muscles become more responsive to insulin.

4. Boosts Brain Function

Being active encourages the growth of new brain cells and can help prevent any decline in cognitive function which occurs in conditions such as Alzheimer’s.

5. Improve Mental Wellbeing

Walking offers excellent mental health benefits.

If you feeling anxious, take yourself off on a short stroll to help reduce stress levels; you will come back refreshed and in a better mood.

Physical activity also release endorphins (natural mood enhancers), so not only does walking give you an opportunity to clear your head, it is a good activity to improve your mood.