Eight Reasons Why Walking is Great for Your Health

We all know that we should walk more, but it is hard to get motivated.  It is easy to talk ourselves out of getting started and hard to stick with it, but the rewards are great.  Here are some reasons for you to get out and walk and it is also free!

1. Walking strengthens your heart

Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by walking regularly. It’s great cardio exercise, lowering levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. The Stroke Association says that a brisk 30-minute walk every day helps to prevent and control the high blood pressure that causes strokes, reducing the risk by up to 27 percent.

2. Walking lowers disease risk

A regular walking habit slashes the risk of type 2 diabetes by around 60 percent, and you’re 20 percent less likely to develop cancer of the colon, breast or womb with consistent aerobic activity such as walking.

3. Walking helps you lose weight

You’ll burn around 75 calories simply by walking at 2mph for 30 minutes. Up your speed to 3mph and it’s 99 calories, while 4mph is 150 calories. Work that short walk into your daily routine and you’ll shed the pounds in no time.

4. Walking prevents dementia

Older people who walk six miles or more per week are more likely to avoid brain shrinkage and preserve memory as the years pass. Dementia affects one in 14 people over 65 and one in six over 80.  Walking would be great preventive medicine.

5. Walking tones up legs, derrieres and stomachs

Give definition to calves, quads and hamstrings while lifting your glutes with a good, regular walk. Add hill walking into the mix and it’s even more effective. Pay attention to your posture and you’ll also tone your abs and waist.

6. Walking boosts vitamin D

Recent research points to Vitamin D’s importance in bone health, immune systems and overall health.  Walking is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while getting your vitamin D fix.

7. Walking gives you energy

You’ll get more done with more energy, and a brisk walk is one of the best natural energizers around. It boosts circulation and increases oxygen supply to every cell in your body, helping you to feel more alert and alive.

8. Walking makes you happy

It’s true – exercise boosts your mood. Studies show that a brisk walk is just as effective as antidepressants in mild to moderate cases of depression, releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety. So for positive mental health, walking’s an absolute must.

A Walking Group for Beginners Started July 24

We all need some motivation help and the best motivator is being part of a group or having a buddy that is counting on you to be there.  So join me and help me stay motivated as I start a walking group for beginners.  We will meet at the Tucumcari Fitness Complex by the High School Auditorium each Monday at 8:30 a.m.  We will do a few stretches and walk at our own pace around the paths.  The weather should be cool enough to walk safely this early.  Wear good shoes and bring a bottle of water.  This group will start walking July 24 and try to continue through September.  You may start at any time.  No charge!  No registration, just show up.