Walking is excellent exercise. Importantly, it is also free, accessible and you already know how to do it. We may not always consider walking as 'exercise', because we often take it for granted, and most of us do it every day almost without thinking. But walking is a wonderful way to keep moving and stay well. Heart-healthy, as well as great for bone and muscle strength, walking also supports the joints, oxygenates the blood, improves circulation and sleep quality, alleviates fatigue and depression, lowers stress, improves posture and endurance, and releases those all-important endorphins to increase our sense of wellbeing.
Walking makes us feel good. It keeps our brains engaged and active, strengthens our bodies, rewards our efforts with glorious views and helps us collect some beautiful memories along the way.
Staying physically active through walking may help prevent various illnesses. It has been shown to reduce the risk of several major health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes and some kinds of cancer by significant amounts, in some cases up to as much as 60 percent.
It can also lower the chances of developing osteoporosis. Regular physical exercise also helps with balance, assists in muscle and bone health, and lowers blood pressure, as well as playing a part (along with diet of course) in maintaining a healthy weight.
BRISK WALKING
This story is from the July 2023 edition of Women's Fitness UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 2023 edition of Women's Fitness UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Five ways to...Ease PMS symptoms
Five ways to...Ease PMS symptoms
Wrist Candy
Sarah Sellens tries the new Apple Watch Series 9, and discovers it has some really cool new features for cyclists
Ask the experts
Stay fit and well with this top advice from the Women's Fitness experts
Beat it!
We all know exercise makes us feel good, but listen to music as you work out and you'll double the mental health benefits
'YOGA IS VERY HELPFUL FOR NAVIGATING THROUGH LIFE'
Sadie Frost talks to Eve Boggenpoel about her love of Jivamukti, becoming a yoga teacher and hosting her first retreat on the Mediterranean island of Gozo
layer up!
A great top layer for the springtime, gilets will keep your core warm without the risk of overheating
LET'S GET STRONG TO RUN!
Athlete, personal trainer and co-founder of New Levels Coaching, Gemma Hillier-Moses shares her top moves for building strength to enhance running performance and prevent injuries
The latest ROAD RUNNERS
Find your fast feet on the roads with the newest supercushioned, speed-run and racing trainers
MY FIRST Marathon
Running coach Cory Wharton-Malcolm explores the mental and physical journey he experienced during his first marathon - and why it changed the course of his life forever
Ace A FITNESS RACE!
HYROX is the functional fitness event that's taking over the workout world. We reveal why its so popular and how to get started