The Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the most productive forms of exercise and causes a tremendous increase in our energy levels.  The benefit seen from adding just 20 minutes of walking to your daily routine is unbelievable.  I can attest to the tremendous increase in energy, as a participant in walking for exercise.  I lost a total of 74 lbs. in one year, by simply adding walking to my routine.  I had been dieting for almost two months, with very little in the way of results.  Walking was suggested by my physician, and I’ve never been so impressed.  My energy levels were three times what they were prior to beginning the walking, and I truly enjoyed the peace of mind that I achieved during those daily walks.

The added exertion of physical exercise is often the catalyst our bodies needed to boost weight loss into high gear.  For the individual trying to lose weight, the benefits of walking far exceed an infringement on personal time or detraction from television time that occurs.  Not only is it good for your body, when you’re trying to cut back, but it also gives you something constructive to do with your time.  Exercise also decreases our hunger pangs, increases our fluid intake, and helps our blood to circulate much better.

Added Pressure

If there are any downside effects to walking, it is the added pressure we put on our knees, ankles, and feet.  If you already have a joint condition, such as arthritis, you might want to start very slowly and add mileage only as you see that your body can handle what you are presently doing.  Taking the time to buy good, supportive shoes, and wear leg bracing if needed can eliminate any further injury or harm.  Talk to your doctor if you think you might have any of these conditions, and make sure that you are taking care of your body as you exercise it.

There are some excellent magazines and journals out there that provide a novice walker with all kinds of helpful advice and tips.  Tips that offer assistance in what type of walking shoe you need, to what kind of walking sticks are best.  There are many opportunities for you to participate in community events, national events, and even marathons if you choose.  From shoes to clothing tips, these magazines were a real inspiration for me, also.  There are real-life stories that you feel as though you could have written, that sing the praises of walking as a way of life.

The peace of mind that comes from taking a few minutes to stop and enjoy the sunset as you walk cannot be compared.  Walking gives you the time we no longer take for private reflection.  To ask yourself if you spent your day wisely, did you omit something that needed to be done, did you listen to your spouse when he needed to talk?

Twenty minutes out of your day to walk, contribute to your health, clear your mind, and get a glimpse of the most beautiful sunset, how can you not take advantage of an offer like that?

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.
Since natural and/or dietary supplements are not FDA-approved they must be accompanied by a two-part disclaimer on the product label: that the statement has not been evaluated by FDA and that the product is not intended to “diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.”