Walking is an underrated exercise, but it actually has incredible health and fitness benefits, especially when you incorporate it into your daily routine. It is recommended that we aim to walk 10,000 steps a day, which is approximately 8 kilometers. You may find that you easily reach this in your job or with your commute taken into consideration. However, if you don’t, it’s definitely worth trying to get those extra steps in! Here’s why:
Improve Your Fitness and Lose Weight
If you need to get into shape or improve your fitness levels, the best place to start is walking. Suppose you walk between 7500 and 10000 steps a day. This will seriously increase your fitness levels without you even realizing it, and it isn’t too strenuous, so most people can realistically reach this target. It’s also a great way to aid weight loss if you want to shed some fat as it burns a lot of calories without the need for a trip to the gym!
Decreases Hypertension
Taking daily walks can lower your bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It also keeps your heart healthy as it’s a daily form of activity that gets your heart and blood pumping.
Reduces Stress Levels
Did you know that just 10 minutes of being outside and amongst nature can positively impact your mood and reduce stress levels? Now add in walking, and you’re also getting an endorphin release and form of exercise. Taking a leisurely stroll is a perfect way to relieve yourself from stress, calm yourself, and clear your head. You can also listen to a podcast, call a friend, or just have your favorite music on your headphones as you go. For an extra motivational boost, team up with a friend for morning walks to start your day right.
