Why Walking To Lose Weight Is So Effective

Walking is a fantastic form of exercise which unfortunately, given the many benefits it offers, is often overlooked. It's an activity that almost anyone can do ' no special equipment, training or expertise is required. There's no need to make a special trip to the gym (and no membership fees either) ' so you can fit it into your daily schedule whenever it's most convenient for you.

Walking has a lower dropout rate than almost any other form of exercise, and it can be continued to an age when many other modes of exercise would not be possible for most people. It's also a low impact type of workout and, in comparison with other physical activities, has a very low risk of injury.

Perhaps we have a 'no pain, no gain' mentality ' but it can be difficult for many to credit that an exercise which is so easy, cheap and readily available can deliver significant benefits. However, the list of benefits is lengthy and they are well proven.

Walking can help to lower your blood pressure. It can lower the probability of stroke and heart disease. It can help to fight anxiety and depression, improve your mood and your mental well-being. Regular walking will provide you with higher energy levels - you will feel less tired during the day. It can even lower the risk of certain forms of cancer. Recent studies suggest that it may also reduce the risk of contracting Alzheimer's disease. For many people, the main attraction will be the fact that walking burns calories and leads to weight loss and a reduction of body fat.

It's an impressive list of health benefits which is, in fact incomplete. There are a number of other benefits attributable to walking but those listed above should serve to illustrate just what an effective and beneficial activity it is. In order to achieve these benefits, small changes in your daily routine are all that's required. Walking for as little as 30 minutes a day will have a positive impact. If you can build up to 10,000 steps daily ' equivalent to 5 miles a day for most people, and more easily achievable than you might think ' you will really notice the benefits. You will look better and feel healthier.

You will often hear the suggestion that you should leave the car in the garage and walk to the shops, school or work. However, if the distance involved is too great to make that realistic for some people then there are plenty of other opportunities to benefit from walking and many of them will be feasible for you. For example, if you travel by bus or metro, you could get off one or two stops in advance of your destination and walk the remainder of the distance. Take the stairs instead of using the elevator evry second time. Take a 15 minute walk during your lunch break. These are all very achievable minor improvements which will gradually produce improvements in your health and fitness levels.

Don't forget to seek the advice of your doctor before starting on any new exercise regime ' especially if you haven't exercised for a while or if you have any long term medical condition. However, the key to achieving the health benefits on offer is consistent and regular exercise. There's absolutely no need to over exert yourself or get all hot and bothered. Make walking a regular part of your daily routine and you will soon look better, feel better, have more energy and, most important of all, enjoy life to the full.


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