Walking is a straightforward form of physical activity that offers numerous
health benefits. It’s accessible to people of all ages and requires minimal effort.
By walking for at least 30 minutes five times a week, you can meet your
recommended exercise goals as an adult (CDC )

 

This easy-to-do workout is a fantastic way to enhance your quality of life
because it offers numerous advantages for your mental, emotional, and physical
well-being.

Here are some incredible benefits of walking at least 30 minutes daily:
1.  Walking strengthens the heart: Walking regularly helps strengthen the
muscles of the heart and facilitate blood circulation, which can help in
managing blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke, atherosclerosis,
and other heart conditions.
2. Walking reduces the risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Consistent walking helps
regulate blood sugar levels, potentially preventing the onset of type 2
diabetes. Studies suggest that a 10-minute walk after meals can
effectively control blood glucose and decrease diabetes the risk of
diabetes. Diabetes.org
3.  Walking is a great weight loss tool: Yes! You read that right. Brisk
walking consistently for 30-60 minutes daily, and eating on a calorie
deficit is one of the easiest, fastest, and most sustainable ways to lose
weight and keep it off forever.
4.  Walking improves your mood: Walking releases endorphins,
the body’s natural mood lifter; this is tested and trusted on days when I
feel bored, moody, or when I can’t even identify how I feel. I take my
Airpods and just walk. Try it; it works wonders.
5.  Boosts Joint Health: Walking helps everyone, men and women, to feel
less stiff and less pain by lubricating and strengthening the muscles
surrounding the joints, especially those who suffer from arthritis. Arthritis Foundation

 

 

6.  Walking reduces Stress: The rhythmic and repetitive way of walking
has a soothing effect, helping to calm the mind and reduce stress levels.
7.  Promotes Creativity and Mental Clarity: Walking can help with focus,
memory, and cognitive function because it increases blood flow to the
brain. Walking is a great way to help people decompress, think creatively,
and solve problems.
8.  Promotes Longevity: Studies have shown that walking is one type of
regular physical activity that has been found to increase life expectancy
and enhance overall quality of life.
9. Lowers the possibility of developing chronic diseases: Walking
regularly can reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis, type 2
diabetes, obesity, and some types of cancers. Physical activity for health – PMC – NCBI
10.  Enhances Coordination and Balance: Regular walking enhances your
balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and related injuries.
John Hopkins Medicine

Studies have backed up several other benefits of walking. Walking is
underrated. When in doubt and you don’t know what to do, TAKE A WALK.

 

Harafat Busari is a Lifestyle Medicine Nutritionist and is Senior Nutritionist at Ariella Health and Fitness, Africa’s first digital Lifestyle Medicine Practice.