Walk Your Way to Better Health

Walking is a simple form of exercise that can deliver great health benefits. Read on to learn why walking is so good for you, and get some tips on how to get your family moving.

Improve overall health.

Walking is a great way to stay healthy and prevent or manage serious medical conditions. It's a modest aerobic exercise that can help you stay within a healthy weight range. You’ll reduce your risk for heart disease and blood pressure problems. Studies show that active people lose less bone density and avoid osteoporosis. Walking may also reduce your risk for several types of cancer. On top of all these physical health benefits, walking just feels good. A walking routine can manage stress levels and emotions. 

Physical activity recommendations encourage 30 minutes of daily moderate activity to reach a total of 150 minutes each week. That might seem like a lot, but you don’t have to log it all at once. You can break it down into as little as 10 minute spurts of activity that won’t even cause you to break a sweat. A walk around the block before each meal will help you reach your goal in no time.

Walk anywhere, anytime.

You can walk almost anywhere, even in the comfort of your own home. Try walking from room to room, the length of a hallway, or even climb a flight of stairs for an extra challenge. Try to fit in some extra steps while you’re at work too. Substitute the stairs for the elevator. Park your car to maximize your steps to the office. A walking break can be a great pick-me-up when your energy fades at work or at school.

The best part is that walking is good for the whole family. Kids need to be active, and exercising together can make it a fun family time instead of drudgery. For more information, check out the We Can! initiative through the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute at nhlbi.nih.gov. They offer tips for incorporating more activity and healthy eating for busy families.

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”It’s time to stop making excuses, and take the first step toward wellness.