Walk More, Walk Often
Walking is one of the most underrated and undervalued tools to transform one’s life.
The act of walking is simple and something we do every day. However, most aren’t walking enough. You’ll be surprised by how influential walking is to mood, weight loss and overall well-being.
So, what’s the deal? Why should you walk more?
Walking provides the body with an endless amount of benefits. Ranging from physical to mental advantages, walking improves almost everything. As mentioned in a previous post, aim to walk at least 7,000 steps a day.
This includes a 30 minute walk. You can walk all 30 minutes at once or divide it into three 10 minute walks, two 15 minute walks or whatever works for you. As long as you’re reaching that half hour mark, or even longer, you will reap the benefits.
Start where you can!
Maybe this week you focus on walking 10 minutes a day. Then, increase the duration to 15 minutes the following week. Each week increase your duration until you reach 30 minutes a day.
Schedule a walk anytime you can during your day. Walk first thing in the morning; during or in between meetings; during your lunch break; before and after workouts; after dinner/in the evening; or whenever. Make it a priority and it will become a core value.
Walking is a form of passive cardio. You can do it mindfully and without much thought. Use it as a moment to disconnect from screens and connect with nature, or as a way to catch up with people or podcasts. Whatever gets you walking.
It also uses more fat, as a percentage, of fuel burned and maintains more muscle. It’s low impact making it sustainable and easygoing on joints and the body. Walking is also great for the mind.
Other benefits of walking:
Decreases stress hormones / improves mood
Lowers blood sugar
Strengthens the heart
Boosts blood flow to the brain
Reduces inflammation
Lowers risk of diabetes and chronic diseases
Increases immunity
Helps with digestion
Increases lung capacity
And much, much more
Create momentum by getting up and putting on your shoes. You're more likely to then get moving. Change it up when needed. Walk on a treadmill one day, walk at a local park the next, hike trails the following week, etc.
Walk leisurely or walk fast as if you’re late. Either way you’re getting your heart rate up, getting sunshine and fresh air, and moving. The human body is designed to walk.
With consistency and dedication, you’ll notice changes in your overall well-being. Walk even when you don’t feel like it. Bring water when it’s hot, bundle up when it’s cold and bring an umbrella in the rain.
If you rather walk on the treadmill, then so be it. Just walk.