9 Epic Walking Benefits for Health

A gentle, low-impact exercise that’s easy, free, and available to everyone – here’s why walking benefits health rocks.

1. It strengthens your heart

Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by walking regularly. And It’s great cardio exercise, lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.

While The Stroke Association says that a brisk 30-minute walk every day helps prevent and control the high blood pressure that causes strokes, reducing the risk by up to 27 per cent.

2. It lowers disease risk

A regular walking habit slashes the risk of type 2 diabetes by around 60 per cent. And you’re 20 per cent less likely to develop cancer of the colon, breast, or womb with an active hobby such as walking. Do you want to know the important factors that cause cancer? You can find out more info here

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3. It helps you lose weight

You’ll burn around 75 calories simply by walking at 2mph for 30 minutes. Up your speed to 3mph, and it’s 99 calories, while 4mph is 150 calories (equivalent to three Jaffa cakes and a jam doughnut!). Hence work that short walk into your daily routine, and you’ll shed the pounds in no time.

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4. It prevents dementia

Older people who walk six miles or more per week are more likely to avoid brain shrinkage and preserve memory as the years pass.

While dementia affects one in 14 people over 65 and one in six over 80, we reckon that’s a pretty great idea.

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5. Walking tones up legs, bums, and tums

Define calves, quads, and hamstrings while lifting your glutes (bum muscles) with a good, regular walk.

Also, add hill walking into the mix, and it’s even more effective.

Pay attention to your posture, and you’ll also tone your abs and waist.

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6. Walking boosts vitamin D

We all need to get outside more. While many people in the UK are vitamin D deficient, affecting important things like bone health and our immune systems.

And walking benefits for health is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while getting your vitamin D fix.

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7. Walking gives you energy

You’ll get more done with more energy.

And a brisk walk is one of the best natural energizers around.

It boosts circulation and increases oxygen supply to every cell in your body. It is helping you to feel more alert and alive.

Try walking benefits for health on your lunch break to achieve more in the afternoon.

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8. Walking makes you happy

It’s true – exercise boosts your mood.

And studies show that a brisk walk is just as effective as antidepressants in mild to moderate cases of depression, releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety.

Also, for positive mental health, walking’s an absolute must.