Walking is now my all-round health hero

Ok, so anyone who knows me, knows I like to do things quickly and walking has always seemed too slow to be a good form of cardio or weight loss exercise. However, after a recent back injury I was compelled to give it a try. One month later, I realise I have seriously under-rated walking – I’ve met some nice neighbours (who I will quietly admit I have actually never seen before), my back and hip pain has significantly improved (I no longer yelp as I stride out), I’ve enjoyed listening to some great podcasts on the way, got some vitamin D in the process and my day has begun to feel ‘mentally lighter’  – and IT'S ALL FOR FREE!!!!!

In this week’s blog we look at all the reasons it is such a health hero not only for your physical health and life longevity but also to help reduce the stress and anxiety levels and pump you full of all the good stuff (happy hormones), putting that bounce back in your step for the day.

Improves your physical health

One of the biggest benefits of walking is that it improves your overall cardiovascular health, ie your heart, blood vessels, and blood! Walking thirty minutes per day is enough to increase your heart rate, improve circulation and lower your blood pressure – all of which is good for your cardiovascular health.

It also helps maintain a healthy weighty reducing excess body fat and boosting metabolism, lowers blood pressure, blood sugar and insulin levels, and reduces a lot of other health complaints

Improves your fitness, reduces joint pains

Ok so you can't dawdle, but as long as you get the heart rate up you can avoid the expensive gym fees and fill your lungs with fresh air rather than aircon. Consistent and regular walking regimes engage various muscle groups in the hips and the core which makes your endurance for everyday tasks better. As well as improving muscles, walking will also give you better posture, balance, and coordination.

It is a really effective way to also reduce body pain. When you walk regularly for exercise, this helps to lubricate and strengthen the muscles around stiff and painful joints. Walking also reduces excess body fat which can also be causing pressure and  strain on the body’s joints and muscles. For a menopausal woman who suffers from intermittent hip and knee pain, the walking is a gift.

 Improves your mental health

One of the biggest benefits of walking is the positive effect it can have on your mental health. Not only does going for a brisk walk release your endorphins, the increased blood flow and oxygen in your body can also stimulate brain function and creativity. 

If you decide to take your walk outside, you’ll also be ensuring that you’re getting your daily dose of Vitamin D which in turn lowers the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.

So get out there girl and give walking a go. I once mocked walkers, and now I feel a deep sense of shame. How shallow I now seem.

She is my new health hero x