Why Walking Steps a Day Is a Game Changer for Your Health
Did you know that walking 10K steps a day can cut the risk of obesity up to 31%? How many steps do you take a day? Do you know? Or even better, do you care to know?
If the answer is Yes, I hope this article will make you keep on walking, with reaffirmed convictions over the benefits you are getting from this basic activity. If the answer is No, you should be reading as well, so you are aware of the health benefits you’re leaving on the table. And maybe, I can convince you to go for a walk later today 🙂
So let’s begin!
If you know me at all, you know I like to cut to the chase and give short and descriptive paragraphs. Also, feel free to save this one or even print it and keep it handy as a daily motivation to KEEP WALKING!
A new, recent study was conducted on close to 400.000 participants (linked here) and has revealed the benefits and positive effects of walking more than 8200 steps per day. I will summarise in one column the findings of this study, as well as governmental general recommendations in the matter:
- gastrointestinal reflex disorder
- sleep apnea
- shortness of breath
- reducing stress
- improving mental health
- improve mood
- improves muscle endurance
- improve cardiovascular fitness
- enhance cognition and memory
- improve sleep
- improve balance and coordination
- maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat
- prevent and manage health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer, and type 2 diabetes
- strengthen muscles and bones
- increase energy levels
- strengthen the immune system
And all, at a 0 cost!
For cardiovascular health and if you want to burn more calories, you should aim for a gradual increase in your pace. You can also alternate intervals of fast walking with slower pace type walks. You should aim for 150 minutes of weekly walk. But don’t put yourself down if you can’t manage to achieve that in your first week (or every week). Life gets in a way sometimes and also, let’s face it, not all of us like to walk if there is bad weather (and that’s me right here!). Work on it and do your best. Also, you don’t need to do all your set steps in our session. You can split it up.
How should you start?
Begin with 10 min of walking post every main meal. Simple, right?
What do you need for a successful walking session? Theoretically, nothing but your beautiful self, and your motivation. But in practice, your footwear makes a huge difference for your feet/knees’ health. Your shoes must have proper arch support, a firm heel, and thick, flexible soles to cushion your feet and absorb shocks.
Also, you want to keep track of your steps, right? That’s why I recommend you investing in a smart watch if you want to have the best of the best in terms of data detail.
LEVEL2FIT
