Walking is an easy, convenient and low-impact form of exercise that has tremendous physical benefits. Take advantage of the spring weather in Rhode Island and get outside for a walk when you wake up or on your lunch break, no matter your age or athletic ability. Just 30 minutes a day can make a major difference!
See how a regular walking schedule can improve your overall physical and mental health:
Strengthen your heart: Regular walking is a great addition to your heart-healthy routine with the proven ability to lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Any activity that increases heart rate and circulation, such as walking, as a part of a weekly routine drastically lowers your risk for these diseases.
Slim your waistline: For those looking to lose a few extra pounds, or simply maintain a healthy weight, walking is a great way to burn calories. The average person weighing 130 pounds burns 75 calories by walking at a 2mph pace for 30 minutes, 99 calories at a 3mph pace, and fast walking at a pace of 4mph burns about 150 calories during the same time. Walking also helps to increase muscle mass, burning additional calories even after you exercise.
Preventative medicine: The benefit of a healthy weight as a result of regular walking exercise strengthens all of the major weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, knees, and back. This strength will prevent many deteriorative conditions, such as arthritis and stress fractures, which result from weak joints, bones and muscle. The low-impact exercise of walking is great for those who have frail bones or a history of falls that are looking to get moving.
Ease the pain of osteoporosis and arthritis: Walking is a weight-bearing activity, and thus, stimulates and strengthens the bones to increase their density. This is very important especially for women with osteoporosis and those looking to prevent conditions such as arthritis.
Increased energy and mood boost: Increased circulation, oxygen and endorphins as a result of a moderate intensity workout, such as walking, are proven to increase energy and mood while relieving stress. Make your walk social, get a group of your friends together and head outdoors!
Walking can cure a multitude of ills as a part of a regular exercise routine. For more suggestions on ways you can get moving, contact Blackstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. Our physical therapists and specialists would be happy to assist you by providing you with knowledgeable health and fitness information. Visit our site or call (800) 725-3037 to schedule an evaluation.
