With the modern lifestyle where physical activity is less, people tend to forget that walking is a great exercise for their body. Although walking is not a high-intensity workout, it has many benefits for physical and mental health. Here are 11 things that happen to your body when you walk every day for at least 30 minutes.
1. Improved mental health
Walking can work wonders for your mental health. Studies have shown that low-intensity activities such as walking can help prevent neurodegenerative diseases. When you walk every day, you strengthen your body as well as your mind.
2. Better vision
Walking makes your blood circulate, which means that your body will be better able to provide nutrients to organs in need. Walking has been proven to improve vision and even to fight against glaucoma. It does this by relieving the pressure accumulated in and around the eyes.
3. Reduced risk of heart disease
The movement is good for the heart. Like running, walking increases blood flow and helps regulate blood pressure. It can even lower cholesterol levels.
In a new study conducted by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California, researchers analyzed 33,060 runners and 15,045 walkers. They found that the same energy used for moderate intensity walking and high intensity running resulted in similar reductions in the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and even coronary heart disease over the six years of life. study.
4. More lung capacity
The more you work your lungs, the stronger they will become. The lungs are muscles that enjoy being exercised from time to time. As they fill up with more air, they will eliminate toxins and waste, resulting in greater lung capacity.
5. Pancreatic health
Walking can be the secret of diabetes prevention, associated with healthy eating, of course. A study of walkers and runners over six months showed that walkers were more able to absorb glucose in their cells. Once glucose is inside the cell and used properly, it is no longer a threat to the human body.
6. Digestion improved
Walking moves everything in the body, so it makes sense that it leads to better digestion. Walking for 30 minutes a day can help regulate bowel movements. If you also make sure to stay hydrated, this will give you better results.
7. More muscle tone
Walking is a low-impact way to circulate blood and move the body. If you walk long enough, you can actually have the same benefits as you would a low intensity workout. Improved muscle tone and consistent weight loss are both the result of choosing an active lifestyle.
8. Bones and sturdy joints
Daily walking helps stimulate joint mobility and prevent fractures and bone loss. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends walking at least 30 minutes each day for five days a week to see the benefits of walking on the musculoskeletal system (muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and joints).
9. Less back pain
If you have lower back pain, walking may be the answer. This low-impact activity also promotes excellent circulation around the spine, allowing your body to naturally repair minor injuries. Make sure you have good posture while you walk, and your back muscles will strengthen each day.
10. A calmer mind
Walking has been shown to improve depressive symptoms in clinically depressed patients. Walking is a way of interacting with your body. The more you listen to your wants and needs, the more decisions you can make to better your health.
11. More energy
Walking helps you spend more energy during the day, which means you'll sleep better at night. Walking also causes blood to circulate, so all messages sent by your brain reach their destination faster. If you walk every day, your body will work efficiently and you will feel a steady increase in your energy.
No matter what your schedule, you can always take half an hour to do some walking. Even if you are busy, you can move around parking for example a little further away from your workplace, taking the stairs instead of the escalator and going on a weekend walk with family or friends. All of these tips can help you establish a routine for better health.