Seriously, we all tend to think that you need to hit the gym at least 4 times a week to say that you exercised. You need to get your heart rate up, burn those calories but really who has 2 hours to go to the gym. 2 hours you say? Well umm yup. Think about it, it's not like the gym is just outside your house, you need to get there, car or public transport and then do your 45-60 min routine, shower etc and now to go off to work or wherever. Look at the clock... 2hours have passed! OMG!
So my thing is go for a walk! Yup it's cheap, it's outside your front door and you'll be so surprised to hear the benefits!!
1. Get's You Outside
Yes that actually is a benefit. When was the last time you got up and breathed the fresh air, looked up at the clouds moving above or watched the trees as they start changing from being bare to full bloom? Being outside in the fresh air allows your body to get oxygen and some vitamin D from the sunshine. These are both important for our health.
Of course going for a walk outside I'm referring to countries where the air pollution is not bad. In Bangkok for example people walk around with masks on their faces as the air pollution is so bad!
Going for a walk in the park or on the beach is naturally the best place in terms of air pollution. Here the air is much cleaner and the benefits for your lungs and body is very apparent.
2. Weight Control
If you go for a stroll well that is nice, and has it's benefits as well, but if you want to get that heart rate up and burn some calories and help with the cholesterol then you need to be doing a brisk to fast pace walk. They say losing weight is 80% what you eat and 20% exercise, so yup walking does help with the weight loss and controlling the weight, but it's not a stand alone, you still will need to watch your diet.
That being said, if you are overweight, so walking and moving your body will help to burn those calories and help drop those pounds. As you start to lose those pounds and inches, your overall strength and endurance will increase which will allow you to walk further and quicker!
3. Balance and Coordination
Bet you didn't think about that as a benefit huh? But yup balance and coordination is also a benefit of walking!
When walking especially if you are walking over a rough terrain will help your balance and coordination. This can be enhanced if you move your head around, move your head up and down. Do these while you walk for the count of 30 and your balance and coordination will improve.
3. Strengthening of Your Bones and Muscles
Walking is perfect for starting out your exercise routine. It's low impact which means less injury and it helps to strengthen and tone your body. As you get fitter and it happens quicker than you think, you can add weight lifting exercises that will help develop your muscles and bones.
4. Boost Your Mood and Fight Depression
Any form of exercise will release endorphins that will change your mood for the better and can even help get you out of depression! Walking is no exception. So next time you are feeling a little down and out or a lack energy, grab your running shoes and your phone for music and go for a walk! You will be amazed how well this works! Well don't listen to me go out there now for a walk!
5. Social
The other great thing about walking is that EVERYONE can do it! No major skill set is required. It's easy , you already do it, you just need to do it for an intense period of time like 30 minutes a day. Grab a friend, dog or loved one and go for a chat and a walk together. Kill two birds with one stone!
So now it's time to reap the benefits of doing what you already know how to do, go for a walk now!
Would love to know what your thoughts are, leave your comments below.