Benefits of Walking

Walking seems like an enjoyable activity, but isn't it too easy an exercise to really provide much benefit in terms of fitness, weight loss, calories burned and general health?

It would seem that way in this age of “No pain, no gain”, “Give 110%”, “Just do it”, and other gung-ho catchphrases. How can something so simple, so easy, so relaxing, and so enjoyable actually be good for you? It doesn't hurt, there's no “wall” to hit; in fact it's actually fun! C'mon, how can walking the dog on a sunny day have any real health benefit?

It seems we've all been a bit misled during the fitness craze that's accompanied the baby boom generation into believing that something enjoyable can't possibly be beneficial. But the facts don't support that view. There is ample evidence that walking has a multitude of benefits.

Health Benefits

Studies show that walking can:

• Reduce risk of coronary heart disease and stroke
• Reduce high cholesterol
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce risk of colon cancer
• Reduce body fat
• Help control body weight
• Increase bone density and help prevent osteoporosis
• Help with osteoarthritis
• Reduce risk of non-insulin dependent diabetes
• Help with overall flexibility
• Increase mental well being

Sound good? Read on...

Live Longer

Regular participation in physical activity is associated with reduced mortality rates. (US Dept. of Health 1996). In particular, studies have shown that:

• Fit and active people have approximately half the risk of cardiovascular disease compared to unfit people
• Because the bones are strengthened, fit people are less likely to fall and suffer injuries such as hip fractures
• Fit people are less likely to sustain injury because joints have a better range of movement and muscles are more flexible
• Fit people are less prone to depression and anxiety