In case you need a reason to go for a walk, consider these benefits for your health and happiness:
- A 10 to 20 minute walk at a brisk pace boosts your energy level for the day, and it has a very positive effect on your mood.
- It's a low impact exercise that is suitable for almost all ages - which makes it a great family activity.
- It's good for your heart and can lower your blood pressure, making you less likely to have a stroke.
- It lowers your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, as well as asthma and certain types of cancers.
- It helps you boost your metabolism and increase your muscle mass safely - so it's ideal if you want to lose weight or simply maintain where you are.
- Getting outside for a walk during the day also increases your body's stores of Vitamin D. And being outside is wonderful.
- It can help prevent dementia.
- It provides healthy stress on your bones and joints, so it's ideal for osteoporosis prevention.
- It tones your legs!
- It tones your butt!
- It tones your abs!
- It tones your arms! Letting your arms swing freely as you walk also increases the amount of calories you burn and the boost to your metabolism.
A few tips for a better walk:
- Make sure you wear supportive shoes. If you haven't had your feet checked for pronation, see your friendly local chiropractor!
- Consciously lengthen your spine, and keep your chin slightly tucked in towards your neck. This will help keep the weight of your head balanced over your shoulders, pelvis and feet. Forward head carriage is a terribly destructive postural distortion, and it is distressingly common.
- Walk with a buddy at least some of the time. It's more motivating, you'll walk faster, and it's more fun!
