A great many people avoid taking exercise as they suppose that it will be too much physical effort for them. It’s a bit of a vicious circle where it’s easy to imagine that you need to already have a certain level of fitness and endurance capability in order to get really fit. When you think about it, it’s no wonder that many of us make a mental link between getting fit and getting sweaty and out of breath.
On the other side of the coin, it’s hard for many people to imagine that a low impact, low injury risk workout – an activity which we all do every day – can deliver major health benefits and help you to get in much better shape. However, that’s exactly what walking – a form of exercise which needs no special equipment, training or expertise – can do for you.
When you look at the health benefits that walking can deliver, your feelings of disbelief are only likely to increase. Walking can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke whilst simultaneously improving the efficiency of the lungs. It can help to lower your blood pressure. It can help to fight depression, boost your energy levels and help you to sleep better at night. It can help to reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer. Recent studies in the UK even seem to suggest that it may be effective in fighting Alzheimer’s disease. It can certainly help you to get in shape and lose weight.
Reading that list you might think that it was an ad for some new wonder drug, or maybe an expensive health supplement. Small wonder that it’s hard to credit it. Don’t forget, you can get started on your walking exercise plan without any special exercise equipment. All you need is a good, comfortable pair of shoes and you’re all set. Neither are there any expensive monthly membership fees to pay – walking is free. What’s more, you can slot walking into your day whenever it suits you best.
The general consensus is that, if you can take 10,000 steps a day, you will achieve all of the health benefits previously mentioned. For most people, that equates to a distance of between four and a half and five mile a day – depending upon your height and stride length. It sounds a lot, but it’s easier to achieve than you might think. Leave the car at home and walk to work. Get off the bus or subway a stop or two early and finish your journey on foot. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. It all adds up.
If you have any medical conditions, if you’re over forty years old, or if you just haven’t exercised for a while, then do seek the advice of your doctor prior to embarking on any new fitness routine. However, as long as you exercise a little common sense and start off slowly, walking will deliver you many health benefits.
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