The Benefits of Walking

Physical Health Benefits

Walking is incredibly underrated given its sheer amount of health benefits! Here are some ways walking can bolster your physical health.

Burn Calories and Lose Weight

Walking is a great way to burn extra calories and shed excess weight. Because walking increases your heart rate, it causes you to expend energy and burn calories. How many calories you burn while walking depends on the duration of your walk, the terrain on which you are walking, and your starting weight. Try to walk at for an extended period at brisk pace and slight incline to burn more calories.

Increase Energy Levels

Walking also helps you to improve and maintain your energy levels by increasing blood flow in the body. Increased blood flow helps distribute oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and, as a result, increases energy. 

Boost Immune System

Do you get sick frequently? Walking can help to boost your immune system by increasing the amount of white blood cells in your blood that fight infections and viruses. 

Ease Pain

Walking can also help to reduce muscle and joint pain by warming up your muscles and making it easier for your body to move. 

Improve Cardiovascular Health

If you are at risk for heart disease, you may want to consider taking walks. People who prioritize walking are on average 31% less likely to experience cardiovascular complications. 

Walking vs. Running

If you are unsure whether walking or running is right for you, consider these points.

Walking is low intensity and easy on your joints

If you are just beginning your fitness journey or if you experience muscle or joint pain, daily walks are a great low intensity and low impact way to get in your exercise. 

Running burns more calories 

If your main goal is to lose excess fat and burn calories, running may be a better option for you. Remember to take it slow in your transition from walking to running and be aware of how your joints are feeling.