Staying active and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle is the key to good health and longevity. Walking is one of the best exercises ever as one can decide the pace and intensity as per the body’s capability. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the morning or a stroll post lunch, every step counts and helps you move towards a healthier body and mind.
Sitting for 10 hours or more can be a silent trigger for many lifestyle-related diseases be it cardiovascular illness, hypertension, diabetes, or joint disorders.
Benefits Of Walking Every Day
1. Cardiovascular health: Regular walking strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps manage blood pressure. It contributes to a healthier cardiovascular system, reducing the risk of heart disease.
2. Weight management: Walking is a moderate aerobic exercise that aids in weight maintenance or loss by burning calories. It’s accessible to people of different fitness levels and can be easily incorporated into daily routines.
3. Mood enhancement: Physical activity, including walking, triggers the release of endorphins, which are known as ‘feel-good’ hormones. This can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting a positive mood.
4. Joint health: Walking is a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on the joints. It helps improve joint flexibility and reduces the risk of conditions like arthritis.
5. Bone density: Weight-bearing activities, such as walking, support bone health and can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis by promoting bone density.
What Are The Ways To Improve Your Step Count Everyday
1. Set realistic goals: Start with achievable step goals and gradually increase them over time. This helps build consistency and prevents burnout.
2. Take short walk breaks: Incorporate short walks into your daily routine. Instead of long sedentary periods, take brief walks around the office or your home.
3. Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Track your steps with a pedometer or a fitness tracker. Seeing your progress can motivate you to reach and surpass your step goals.
4. Take the stairs: Opt for stairs instead of elevators whenever possible. Climbing stairs is an effective way to increase your step count and engage different muscle groups.
5. Walk during phone calls: Use phone calls as an opportunity to move. Whether at home or work, pace around or take a stroll while on the phone.
Take a Walk Outdoor is celebrated every year on January 20 to motivate people to get out of their houses and walk outdoors. Walking not only reduces the risk of chronic diseases but can also boost mental health. A new study on walking suggests that brisk walking can multiply health benefits and further reduce the chances of dementia, heart disease, cancer, and even premature death.