Walk Your Way to a Healthier Body

Did you know that walking 30 minutes a day can help your health? That’s right! Walking can help your body in a way that is low impact, and if you invite a good friend or family member along, it can even be fun! The best part is that walking doesn’t cost a thing. Health experts suggest you walk for at least 30 minutes to get the most benefits, but there are no time restrictions. Just remember, if it’s nighttime, make sure you wear proper reflectors so others can see you, and if you are walking alone always have ways to protect yourself.

Health Benefits

Not only does walking give your brain a chance to take a break but your body gets a boost. Walking can help improve your:

  • Heart, Brain and Lung Health
  • Lower Blood Pressure
  • Balance Cholesterol
  • Balance Sugar and Insulin
  • Support Healthy Bones and Balance
  • Healthy Weight Management

There may be something to those cities that encourage walking everywhere and find ways to make walking to work and town more accessible. Just by walking you can dramatically improve your health.

Get Started

Since many of us don’t have cities that are walkable, it can be hard to make walking a part of your daily routine. In the Western culture especially, we love to drive everywhere. But, you can still add walking into your routine no matter where you live.

  • Skip the Elevator Take the Stairs
  • Park in the Back
  • Walk Where you Can (Mailbox, Store, Work, Gym, etc.)
  • Get a Dog (Or walk your neighbors)
  • Make It a Daily Activity

The key is to be consistent. Try to do it at the same time every day. And if you can, make it a game so it’s something you look forward to. The sooner you start, the healthier you will be. A body in motion stays in motion.

Make It Fun
Young woman in running gear bending down smiing into the camera as her male partner is kneeing on the asphalt resting. City landsape in teh background

Some may find that adding walking into their routines is easier than others. No fear, we are here to give you some tips to make walking fun and exciting:

  • Walk with a buddy (dog, neighbor, family member); the more the merrier
  • Mix it up (go to different locations at different times)
  • When the weather’s bad, use an indoor track (while the scenery might not be as appealing, you can always add music for ambiance)
  • Join a walking group
  • Make it a game (Spot the “Blank,” Check Out the Neighbors, I Spy)

You don’t have to walk far, just far enough to keep you motivated. You may notice that once you start, you don’t want to stop. Walking can do wonders for your body as well as your mental health giving you a much-needed break, especially when you become stressed or frustrated. There’s nothing like going for a walk to reset and come back ready to take on whatever comes your way.

Happy Walking!

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On Monday 10/14/24, we will be closed in observance of Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day.