Three Reasons To Go For A Walk Today
Running, weightlifting, CrossFit, high-intensity interval training…
I could go on and on.
But when discussing the best types of exercise, most people forget walking—a skill we learn to dismiss once we master it during infancy.
While it’s arguably the most simple form of exercise, walking can go a long way in helping you remain fit. As a long-time walker, here are five reasons why you should embrace it and go for a walk today.
Health Benefits
Anything that encourages physical activity is good for you. That’s why walking can be positive for your health.
According to an article from Harvard Medical School, walking can reduce the influence of weight-promoting genes, reduce the risk of breast cancer and boost your immunity.
A similar article from the National Institutes of Health mentions that walking can drastically reduce your risk of high blood pressure and help you strengthen your muscles, joints and bones.
If you are trying to stay fit like me, walking can be your best friend. Not only is it easy, but you can also incorporate it into your daily routine with fewer hassles than other traditional forms of exercise.
Walking was vital to helping me lose 30 pounds two years ago. I burned close to 250 calories daily by taking hour-long walks.
Psychological Well Being
There is a reason why people tell you to go for a walk whenever you are stressed.
According to the American Psychological Association, going for a two-hour and thirty-minute walk can lower your risk of depression by up to 25 percent. This is a shocking figure when we consider how prevalent mental health issues are in our society.
During the height of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic I was forced to stay in a house with my dad who was often emotionally volatile due to his dependency on alcohol.
To survive and keep my mental sanity, I took short walks around my neighborhood every evening.
The excursions freed me from a toxic environment and gave me time to self-reflect. Many of my life views were formed during those meditative walking sessions.
It’s Fun
While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, walking can be a great leisure activity.
The best way to unravel the culture and essence of a neighborhood or city is by walking through its streets.
When I was in New York City last March, my love for discovering pushed me to walk 20 miles in a single day. With so many things to see in the Big Apple, the only thing that stopped me was time and a sharp pain in my knee.
I’m not recommending that you take a voyage from Homestead to North Miami by foot, but there are a lot of walkable neighborhoods you can explore in Miami.
My favorites include Miami Beach, Wynwood, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables and Little Havana. All of them have pedestrian friendly zones with lots of amenities.
Regardless of where you go, make sure to maximize all the benefits walking offers. Sometimes, the best things in life are simple.
