The Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the simplest exercises that you can do. Many don’t think of walking as an exercise because they do it all the time.  After all, they’re just walking.  However, walking can become your favorite fitness program. Walking is an easy exercise program to start, which makes it the perfect choice for people over 40.  Walking is one of those exercises that almost everyone, no matter their fitness level, can do and get great results.

New reports say that to maintain a healthy level of fitness as we grow older, daily activity must include 60 minutes of physical activity. This can be a frightening thought if you’ve been sedentary for a good number of years.  Many people have the misconception that unless you are sweating like crazy during a workout, you are not going to see any benefit from exercise. That couldn’t be farther from the truth.

For seniors, walking is an exercise that can grow with you as you increase your activity level. Your walking program may begin with a Sunday stroll in the park, but then your walking workout will grow and have a purpose – to get fit.

Here are a few benefits of walking:

• Improved cardiovascular endurance
• Proper posture
• Improved mood
• Weight loss
• Improved sleep
• Increased muscle tone

Walking can be done most anywhere and at just about any time. You may want to begin in a mall with other early morning walkers.  There may be a track at your local high school or university.  You can go out in the rain or cold as long as you wear proper gear and walk flat paths for safety.  Walking is a very versatile exercise program.  Just keep your shoes with you so whether you’re on vacation or a business trip you can go on your walk.

Start at a pace that you can maintain and still hold a conversation. This will be faster than a stroll but you won’t be race-walking either. Start with a half mile or a mile walk. As you walk faster you can walk farther as a way of continually challenge yourself.

As you get more fit and start to look for greater fitness challenges, move off the track or mall and onto walking paths that have hills.  Walking up and down hills will not only improve your muscle strength, but your heart and lungs will get a good workout, too.  If you live in a neighborhood that has nice sidewalks and streets, choose your path and take a walk.  Call a friend to join you and enjoy your walk even more!

Walking is a great avenue toward better health for people over 40.  It is an activity that is easily customized and other than the cost of the clothing and shoes, it is free (and who doesn’t like free?). You can vary your terrain, vary your speed, and walk farther to challenge yourself and make your fitness program more effective.

You can get started walking for exercise today with just a pair of good shoes and comfortable clothing.  Before you know it, you’ll be feeling better and well on your way to a new, healthy lifestyle.