Our human body is geared for walking which is the safest, cheapest and easiest form of exercise. Among other benefits, walking is a form of exercise that helps in losing weight, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure and reduce risks of diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
In a special report issued by Harvard Medical School, (“Walking for Health”), walking can have a bigger impact on disease risk and other health condition than anything else. One example: Walking just two-and-a-half hours a week, or just under 22 minutes a day, might reduce your risk of heart disease by 30%. . Other benefits of walking include helping to boost your memory and cognitive capability while improving your mood and lowering stress levels.
You don’t need to take 10,000 steps a day. Physical activity guidelines suggest we exercise for at least 150 minutes a week or a half-hour most days. This works out to an extra 2,000 or 3,000 steps. On average, we currently take about 5,000 steps a day while going to work, shopping and housework. Which means 7,000 to 8,000 steps a day seem sufficient. You can start the 30 minutes walking routine with more manageable 10-minutes intervals. E.g., a 10-minute walk instead of taking the bus, a 10-minute walk on your lunch break and a 10-minute walk after dinner.
You get to reap the benefits the moment you put on your shoes. Do it today and it is free!