There is a growing body of scientific research that reveals how walking has a number of health benefits. Walking for 30-40 minutes a day has been shown to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
Not only that but walking has been linked with a whole host of other health benefits, both physically and mentally. So why is walking so good for your body and mind?
Walking Releases Endorphins
It’s not unusual for people to go for a walk to ‘clear my head.’ Thoughts seem to come to us more easily after a walk. Studies have also shown that walking improves your cognitive function.
The reason for that is because walking triggers ‘feel good chemicals’ in your brain such as endorphins. This natural stimulant is a mood enhancer that has been linked with improved feelings of self-confidence and reduced stress levels.
When you feel better about yourself, you think more clearly and are less likely to suffer from mental disorders such as anxiety and depression – which is a global pandemic.
Increase Energy Levels
Exercising four or five times a week will increase your energy levels. When you are more active, you are more dynamic and fun to be around. High energy levels, therefore, improve your relationships – and your sex life!
If you want to increase your energy levels, try fitness walking. Brisk walking is even better for you than walking at a regular pace – and far more impactful than a stroll.
Brisk Walking Lowers Stress Hormones
Another reason for engaging in fitness walking is that it lowers stress levels. Given stress is the underlying cause for the top four causes of death, brisk walking plays a significant role in helping you live longer.
As a matter of fact, one study found that fast walkers live up to 15 years longer than people that walk slowly.
Chronic stress, on the other hand, invites all manner of illnesses. If your body is consistently pumped with stress hormones, your internal cleansing system cannot cope with all the toxic waste and it builds up until it becomes a problem.
Brisk walking helps to reduce stress by working the heart and lungs harder. Subsequently, you take in more oxygen which helps your body to eliminate toxic waste.
Brisk Walking Helps You Lose Weight
Obesity is a major problem in countries like the US and the UK. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state people with obesity “are at increased risk for many serious diseases and health conditions.
Health experts say that walking at any pace can help people burn more calories – providing you also watch you eat. A 30-minute walk and controlled diet help to beat the bulge.
If you are overweight or obese, walking is a low-entry form of exercise that is an ideal fit. Incorporating into your daily routine will help to improve your health.
Walking Boosts Immunity
Oxygen plays an important role in the creating of white blood cells. Your immune system relies on white blood cells to create antibodies to fend off harmful bacteria, viruses and infections.
Because walking makes you breathe more deeply – especially brisk walking – your body and brain get more oxygen. Subsequently, you’re built-in repel and recovery system functions more effectively.
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