While working out can seem like a chore for many of us, not doing it can make us feel guilty for neglecting our bodies. Fortunately, there’s a simple and easy way to take care of ourselves- walking!
Walking burns calories, strengthens bones and muscles, and lifts mood through the production of endorphins. Working up to walking at a brisk pace as a form of low-impact exercise has the potential to lower risks for heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. Walking can also be a gateway exercise that evolves into jogging, sprinting, and long distance running.
Exercise is an excellent opportunity to decompress from your day, or to prepare yourself for a day ahead. Thanks to technology, walking offers an opportunity to multitask, too! For example, you could:
- Call a loved one using wireless headphones
- Catch up on your favorite show through a streaming device (if you’re walking on a piece of indoor equipment)
- Listen to a podcast
- Learn a new language through an app
If you’re stuck at home, you can make walking part of your cleaning routine. Challenge yourself to declutter and put things in their rightful place by focusing on one thing at a time, getting maximum steps and keeping a brisk pace. Hint: this is where pedometers and fitness watches come in handy for tracking progress!
To find an engaging walking route check out community parks, trails, neighborhoods, college campuses, and malls. Just make sure to stay safe in the process and be aware of your surroundings. And if you need urgent care services remember our centers are open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm every day of the week- no appointment necessary! You can use our Save My Spot option here. Our MEDcare team looks forward to helping you Get Better. Faster!
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/walking-step-right-direction
