Walking the walk

Summer is coming to an end but that does not mean that you exercise routine must come to an end also. With so many different exercise options available, it can be challenging to choose the form of activity that best suits you. When faced with so many choices, often the simplest forms of exercise can be overlooked. Walking is one of the best and easiest form of exercises to introduce in your day – no need for fancy equipment and can be done any time, anywhere.

There are obvious benefits to walking – its an exercise with low impact, it’s cost effective, it can be done in all kinds of weather, and there is no equipment required. What you might not know is that this simple movement is actually highly beneficial to your health:

·       Depression – Walking has been shown to improve mood and symptoms in people who are suffering from depression. In fact, one study by Iowa State University showed that depressed participants who took a daily 12-minute walk experienced an improvement in their mood when compared to depressed participants who did not walk.

·       Cancer – A study by the American Cancer Society showed that walking reduces the risk of breast cancer in women: women who walked 7 hours per week were 14% less likely to develop breast cancer compared to women who only walked 3 hours per week.

·       Arthritis – Walking has been shown to improve joint functions by lubricating the joints and strengthening the musculature that support the joints. In turn, walking can be a great exercise to reduce arthritis-related pain.

·       Heart Disease – According to Harvard University researchers, walking for just 21 minutes per day can reduce your risk of heart disease by 30%.

·       Blood Pressure – Arizona State University found that walking just 10 minutes per day is an effective way to lower your blood pressure.

Walking is a great way to exercise for anyone – from beginner to experienced exercisers. Whether you decide to check out some of the beautiful nature trails around our province, or to putter around your own neighborhood, walking is a great way to get moving. If you would like to have a structured walking workout program developed for you, a chiropractor is able to do so. Book an appointment with your local chiropractor today and start walking!