Walking is a low impact exercise that is great for maintaining or improving your overall health. Walking for as little as 30 minutes a day helps your cardiovascular fitness, strengthens bones, helps reduce that excess weight you have been carrying and boosts muscle power and endurance.
The great thing about walking is that it is free, does not have to be vigorous and is low impact! You can walk anywhere and reap the benefits. Walking is especially good for the very overweight, the elderly, or for those of us who have not exercised for a long time.
Walking isn’t limited to strolling around on your own. There are many clubs and walking groups that you could join to make your walk more enjoyable.
Leanne & Fitness Tips Say:
- Walking for 30 minutes a day is suggested and walking doesn’t pose any health risks, however if you have any existing health issues it may be a good idea to talk to your GP before starting a walking regime
- If you find 30 minutes too difficult, start with 10 minutes a day, three days a week, gradually building up your walking time. Having said that, if it is weight loss that you are wanting then you will need to be walking for at least 30 minutes a day
- Take the stairs instead of the lift
- Get off the bus or train one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way to your destination
- Walk the dog
Be sure to warm up and cool down with some light stretching prior to and after walking and invest in some good walking shoes!!
Weight bearing aerobic activity such as walking, is often recommended for people with Osteoporosis. Read more facts about Osteoporosis and Exercise here.
