The Power of Walking

[avatar user=”doller” size=”thumbnail” align=”left” link=”https://somoscc.wpengine.com/who-we-are/denisse-oller”]By Denisse Oller[/avatar]Spring is here, though some days it looks more like October. But I am hopeful. Very soon, hopefully this week, the sun will be coming out from behind those clouds and we will all want to be finding excuses to soak in some sweet sunshine. Getting outside to enjoy the warm weather also presents the perfect opportunity to help you get more physically active – simply by walking more.

You don’t need a complicated workout. Walking is a fantastic way to increase your physical activity with no need for any equipment, fancy training or coaching. Plus, with the sun out, you can get fit, enjoy the outdoors, and soak in some Vitamin D all at the same time. Adults should ideally be getting at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic physical activity every week and walking is an excellent way to accomplish that weekly goal.

No matter how busy you are, walking more can be seamlessly added to your everyday routine. I personally walk briskly for 30 minutes early in the morning to start my day as I take in the beauty and quiet of the early hours. I do the same as soon as I get home. It is the perfect recipe to let go of work-related stress in order to relax and enjoy the evening. Otherwise, I’d go bonkers! Best of all, I feel wonderful afterwards. It is my reward to the self I love and must take care of the most: me.

Here are some tips for getting those walking minutes without having to turn your day upside down trying to find time to exercise:

  • Walk during your commute – We understand that you might live far away from your place of work, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a little exercise in during your commute. If you take the subway to work, try hoping off the train one stop early to add a couple of blocks of walking into your routine. If you drive to work, park a few blocks away instead.
  • Stand up and walk during work breaks – If your job requires you to sit at your desk all day long, be sure to take a break to get up on your feet and walk around a couple times a day. It will not only keep you physically active throughout your day, but it will give you a much-needed break, wake you up and help increase your productivity.
  • Walk while running errands – Whether you have to grab a couple of groceries from the store, pick up a prescription or stop by the bank, walking while you run your errands adds some of those exercise minutes while getting your chores done.
  • Walk to clear your head – At the end of a stressful day, working out and going to the gym is often the last thing we have the energy to do. However, going for a short 20-30-minute walk around your neighborhood can be a great way to unwind and relax after a long day, while getting important exercise without breaking a sweat.

You don’t have to be a professional athlete or have a gym membership to get the recommended amount of exercise every week. The power of walking benefits your overall health and reduces your risk for many diseases and health issues down the line. As you can see, you can even sneak it in throughout busy days. Make this the year you enjoy more sun, breathe in more fresh air, and get more exercise by walking.

Comment below an share your exercise and/or walking stories with me!

 

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/walking/index.htm

https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/be-active/physical-activity-guidelines-for-americans/index.html