Walking is an easy and enjoyable exercise. Although good for all ages, it is especially beneficial for older people and those at risk of cardiovascular problems. Moreover, walking isn’t just invigorating as a physical activity; it is a great mental rejuvenator when walking amongst greenery such as a park, nature trails or even your own garden and backyard. This is what just 30 minutes of walking can do to your body.
As a couch potato not keen on exercising, even the simplest of exercises may seem daunting. Moreover, it involves a gym card and equipment like DVD and of course nutrition to supplement gym activity. But walking! You just need a good pair of sneakers and your two feet. It’s also enjoyable when you go on morning walks and find others like yourself. It then becomes a nice social activity where you meet like-minded people too. If you do this, it is an initial step on your journey to good health.
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As mentioned earlier walking in a relaxed atmosphere and among nature and greenery is a great way to de-stress yourself. The Japanese call this “forest bathing”. Walking needn’t be proved by any research it is a known healthy activity and meditation on the move.
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You don’t need to run a marathon or jog for 10 km all you need is 30 minutes of walking to strengthen your muscles and increase circulation to get that blood pumping and oxygenating your body. When circulation improves, then oxygen also increases to organs which mean you reap the benefits of brain health too. You also prevent the risk of heart attack stroke and blood clots. Your legs will slim down because a sedentary lifestyle and be sitting all day long can actually cause your legs to swell.
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The Human body wasn’t meant for sitting all day. Movement increases synovial fluid in your joints providing them the nutrients necessary for healthy function. Movement and physical activity prevents risk of arthritis and osteoarthritis. Try and move as much as possible during the day. Even if you sit at a desk the whole day, take a short 1-minute break to move around before resuming work.
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Studies show that walking improves memory and brain function. Your focus and alertness is increased because of the improved circulation to your brain. Walking increases oxygenation of the brain making your gray matter healthier and younger. Walking on an uneven surface gives your brain a healthy workout.
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Believe this or not but walking also improves gut health. An unhealthy gut is due to the lack of good bacteria in our bodies. Bad bacteria increases when you lead an unhealthy lifestyle. Doctors advise patients who have undergone abdominal surgeries to start walking as a healthy but non strenuous exercise. This will also stabilize your gut and improve its function.
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Your ultimate goal from 30 minutes of walking will always be to lose weight and that’s exactly what will happen. A brisk walk can pump up your metabolism, your heart and work up a sweat. This contributes to fat burn within your body and effective weight loss. Regular exercise also prevents you from snacking on unhealthy food.
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