Health Benefits of Walking
Walking has skyrocketed in popularity as an approachable and fun way to exercise. Getting 10,000 steps a day has evolved from a fun challenge to a daily goal for many people, and the good news is, it’s great for your health!
Whether you’re a regular walker or just starting to make it part of your routine, it’s motivating to understand the health benefits of walking. We’ve collected a list of seven reasons why walking is good for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being below, and we hope it’s great encouragement to get out and moving!
As you continue or begin your walking journey, it’s important to take extra care of your foot health with high-quality shoes. We highly recommend Vionic’s active styles, and we recommend the best Vionic walking shoes in this blog.
Physical Health Benefits of Walking
Walking has been proven to boost your metabolism and burn calories consistently and effectively. This reduces muscle loss, helps burn fat, and improves your body’s response to insulin.
The amount of calories burned depends on where you walk (i.e. flat or hilly terrain), how quickly you walk, and how long you walk. To maximize calories burned, try to vary your walking speed and route, challenging yourself with inclines and speed-walking when possible.
As you move, your body produces more immune cells, which then attack the pathogens that cause or are susceptible to illness. Blood circulation and reduced inflammation helps your white cells travel throughout your body to fight disease as needed.
Regular walks strengthen the muscles that support your joints, which can prevent joint pain from developing or reduce pain from pre-existing arthritis. It is specifically helpful for your knees, because the compression and release of cartilage stimulates the flow of synovial fluid, which brings oxygen and reduces stiffness.
Mental Health Benefits of Walking
Exercise reduces the stress hormone cortisol, causing you to relax, while also activating endorphins in your brain, triggering positive emotions. Studies have shown that even a ten minute walk can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially if the walk is taken outside.
During aerobic exercise, the brain creates new cells that in turn enhance your learning, decision making, and higher thinking. It also releases dopamine and encourages right-brain activity, both of which increase creativity.
Finding ways to socialize and connect with other people is a key component to taking care of your mental health. Walking is an approachable activity that is easy to do with other people, and spending time with others improves emotional and social well-being.