Many people shy away from exercise as they imagine that it will be too taxing for them. It’s as if they think that they need to already be fit before they can get in shape. It’s hardly surprising that many of us tend to associate getting in shape with high energy fitness routines and getting hot, sweaty and out of breath.
On the other side of the coin, it’s hard for many people to imagine that a low impact, low injury risk workout – an activity which we all do every day – can deliver major health benefits and help you to get in much better shape. However, that’s exactly what walking – a form of exercise which needs no special equipment, training or expertise – can do for you.
And when you take a look at the list of health benefits which regular walking can provide, your sense of disbelief is only likely to grow still further.Walking can help to reduce your blood pressure level. It can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke whilst simultaneously improving lung capacity. It can release endorphins and help to combat depression, make you feel more energetic and help you to sleep better. It can be effective against different forms of cancer. Recent research in the UK suggests that it may even help to stave off Alzheimer’s disease. It can raise your metabolic rate and help you to lose weight.
Looking at that list you would be forgiven for thinking that it was an advert for some expensive new dietary supplement or even the latest miracle drug. No wonder that it’s difficult to credit. It’s also worth mentioning that – apart from a comfy pair of shoes – you don’t need any special equipment to get started on a walking exercise routine. Neither will it cost you any money – there are no expensive gym membership fees to pay each month. You also have the convenience of being able to fit it into your day whenever it suits you best.
Health professionals seem to agree that we should be targeting 10,000 steps a day on a regular basis in order to get the health benefits previously discussed. That equivalent to just under five miles for most people, although it depends upon your stride length somewhat. It sounds like a fair old distance – but it’s easier to achieve than you think. Walk to work and leave the car at home. Take the stairs instead of the lift. Get off the bus a stop before your destination and walk the last leg of your journey. These are just a few examples of ways to increase your daily step count – there are plenty more, and they all add up.
If you are over forty years old, if you have any medical conditions, or if you just haven’t exercised for some time, then it would be wise to seek your doctor’s advice and opinion before you launch any new fitness regime. However, as long as you start off slowly and build up over time, walking will improve your health and fitness levels. More importantly, you will both look and feel much better.
Have a look at the wide selection of styles available from Fit flops – sandals, boots, clogs and slippers. Try using an Omron pedometer to monitor your performance and help you to stay motivated.