Walking to fitness
Print versionWalking for health
Walking is good for you. It is good for your children and good for your parents. In 1997 Proffessor J Morris and Dr Adrianne Hardman agreed that 'Walking is the nearest activity to perfect exercise".
Physical benefits of walking.
Regular brisk walking will improve the performance of your heart, lungs and circulation. It will lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of coronary disease and strokes.
Regular walking at any speed will:
Regular walking at any speed will:
- Help manage weight
- Improve flexibility and strength of joints muscles and bones
- Reduce the bad cholesterol and increase the good
- boost the immune system
- Reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes
Other benefits
Regular walking will improve your mood, reduce anxiety, aid sleep, improve self image and generally enhance mental well being. These particular benefits will be greatly increased if you choose somewhere pleasant for your walk but anywhere is better than nowhere.
Also walking is free! It needs no special equipment (although comfortable shoes are recommended), no gym or club membership and you can do it in a time and place to suit you. You can do it on your own or you can do it with one or more friends. It is safe and low impact with a low risk of injuries and accidents, as long as you watch where you are going.
Also walking is free! It needs no special equipment (although comfortable shoes are recommended), no gym or club membership and you can do it in a time and place to suit you. You can do it on your own or you can do it with one or more friends. It is safe and low impact with a low risk of injuries and accidents, as long as you watch where you are going.