National Walking Month

By Joanie in Health Tips, Lifestyle Tips on 27 May 2021

Did you know that May is National Walking Month? After this last year, most of us are appreciating the chance to get out of the house for a walk more than ever! And now that the evenings are staying lighter for longer, it makes it a perfect time to get out and get walking. Walking has a ton of health benefits that will hopefully motivate you to lace up those shoes and get moving.

Exercise is crucial to the mind and body. Not only for burning fat and keeping us fit, but also for our mental health! The simple act of brisk walking can do the world of good and help you to live a longer, healthier life. Studies show that women who walked more quickly had a life span of about 87 years compared to 72 years for women who walked slowly. Men who walked quickly had a life span of about 86 years compared to 65 years for men who walked more slowly. 

Here are some of the Amazing Health Benefits of Brisk Walking:

❇️Helps maintain a healthy weight

❇️Increased cardiovascular health – stronger heart and lung health. 

❇️Reduces the risk of stroke and heart disease

❇️Stronger bones and muscles

❇️Improved balance and coordination

❇️Helps to manage and prevent various conditions such as high blood pressure & high cholesterol. 

❇️Eases joint pain

Try to set yourself a walking goal every day and aim for at least 30 minutes a day. Whether it’s getting off the bus a stop earlier or walking to your local store and carrying your groceries home. Try to find ways to walk briskly every day to increase your heart rate. If you can, try doing 30 second intervals of jogging and walking. This will help to improve your cardiovascular health immensely. For even more health benefits, aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.