5 Reasons to Get up and Walk!

Walking is one of the few forms of physical activity that virtually everyone can engage in. Walking is inexpensive, is low-impact and can be done in or outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that one third of American adults are considered to be obese. With more than one-third of Americans considered to be obese, now more than ever is the perfect time to get outside and walk. Obesity is associated with a large number of health concerns including stroke, heart disease and type II diabetes. Whether you are overweight or have been leading a sedentary lifestyle for quite some time, walking is the perfect way to ease yourself into an exercise routine. When combined with a healthy, well-balanced diet, walking can be just what you need to turn your health around.

1. Walking can help aid in the digestive process. Research indicates that taking an evening stroll can not only help to aid in digestion, but can also help to keep your blood sugar levels in-check. As if that benefit was not enough, walking immediately following dinner can help to prevent you from going back for seconds or even thirds. If you are out strolling the neighborhood, you will be much less tempted to eat more.

2. Walking helps to promote bone health. No, walking is not going to cause you to gain muscle or bulk up in the same manner performing squats would. However, walking can still help to keep your bones and muscles strong. It may not seem like it, but walking is a great strengthening exercise that can help you to build a stronger core as well as stronger legs. Walking is also a great way to improve your heart health.

3. Walking is low-impact. In a vast majority of cases, there is absolutely no reason to say you cannot participate in a walking program to stay active. Low impact exercises do not put a lot of stress on your joints. As a result, walking is a great activity for individuals of all fitness levels. If you suffer from health problems, walking is generally safe (however, you should always consult a physician before beginning a walking program or any new exercise program). If you are new to exercise, walking is the perfect place to start. If you are a fitness enthusiast, walking is a great way to give your body a rest from the physically demanding exercises you normally put in through. Have you been injured recently? Walking is a great way to resume your regular exercise program without placing too much stress on your body.

4. Walking is not only great for your body, but your mind as well. If you spend all day sitting at your computer screen, life can quickly become extremely stressful. Walking is a great way to help improve your mood throughout the day. Aim to take a walk every day at lunch-time. The fresh air and the physical activity can help calm you down and make it easier for you to get through the rest of your day.

5. Walking just may be the cure for laziness. Are you having a lazy day? Most of the time, there is absolutely no reason why you can’t get up off the couch, lace up your sneakers and enjoy a 30 minute walk around your neighborhood or a local park. Even if you are not feeling extremely motivated, walking is a quick and easy exercise that just may give you the motivation to do something productive with your day. Plus, walking helps to keep your joints and muscles in proper working order.

If it is getting to cold for you to walk, there are several options that will allow you to walk indoors. Walking around the mall, indoor tracks that are in schools and gym, walking up and down the stairs several times. Investing in a treadmill is also nice because you can use all year round. Check out Treadmills from Amazon they have greats deals. The bottom line = no excuses!

******How many steps do you take per day? It is recommended that you take at least 10,000 steps per day. This will burn about 440 calories per day.


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