The time has come to stop making excuses for not exercising and start the habit that can transform not only your body but your entire life. This idea is simple, efficient, and non-threatening to even the most novices of exercisers. Tie your laces, grab a water bottle, and throw on a sweatshirt because it is time to get walking. Many people overlook the enormous benefits that can result from adding a few more minutes of walking to any daily regimen. If burning fat is a main goal, try to aim for longer and slower walks. Faster and shorter walks are the best conditioning forthe heart and lungs.
The best advantage that walking has over any other type of exercise is its simplicity. It is a very low-impact activity that requires no special equipment. A pair of sturdy sneakers and some motivation are all that it takes to begin a walking routine. There is very little strain on the joints and muscles, so chances of injury are minimal, and those with lower back pain may even decrease their strain after a light walk. Finding a place and time to perform this activity is simple since walking can be substituted for driving or taking the elevator.
If a longer walk is desired, there are plenty of sidewalks and pathways around town and campus that can provide an adequate place to take a stroll. The simplicity of walking also reduces the chances that a person will become an exercise drop-out. By adding an extended walk or numerous shorter walks throughout the day, people are able to achieve fitness gains. Since walking often does not feel like exercise, there is less of an excuse to avoid this activity.
Walking can improve both the mental and physical health of those who engage in it on a daily basis. The heart is strengthened, bone density increases, and endurance is improved. Since walking increases the amount of oxygen that is pumped throughout the body, the entire system benefits from this simple activity.
A personʼs metabolism is also increased by walking, so more calories are able to be burnt in twenty-four hours. Combined with a healthy diet, it is possible to lose several pounds per week by adding an hour of walking per day. Risks from diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease, and breast cancer can be greatly reduced by taking some extra steps.
Blood pressure levels can also be greatly reduced when walking levels are increased. Walking can help clear the mind, and allows the exerciser to relax. Activities such as walking have been shown to help relieve stress and aid in the control of anxiety and emotions.
There are several other benefits that can be achieved through walking. First, walking can be a great reason to get together with friends. Suggest going for an enjoyable stroll around campus in order to get some much needed bonding time with someone who may want to talk. Improving oneʼs social life is an added benefit of exercise since workout partners provide a great source of motivation and support.
While adding those extra minutes of cardiovascular effort, pay attention to the scenery that is often overlooked when speeding through the streets in a car. West Chester is a town filled with both interesting buildings and natural beauty. These are often ignored in the fast paced schedules that so many students feel forced to keep. Slowing down to notice and appreciate this scenery is another way to add moreenjoyment to any walking experience.
So stop complaining about how difficult and inconvenient exercise is and start on a new and exciting walking expedition. With so many choices in pathways and partners, walking is a fun way to improve every aspect of life. Overall well-being should be the goal of any good fitness program, and walking can help achieve this healthy lifestyle transformation.