I know for myself, going to the weight section of the gym can be intimidating. Knowing the right movements, where to look for the equipment, and gaining the confidence in front of others is a hard thing to do. One great option to get a great workout in is by walking. Walking can be done anywhere and everywhere. If the weather is nice out, take a stroll outside. If it’s cold and rainy, go to your local gym and hit the treadmill. One thing I do not enjoy about running is the joint pain it gives me. If I go for one run it is great until I can barely walk the next day. That is why walking has been my go to cardio workout every single day. Below is a list of just a few of the benefits of walking.

Benefits of walking

Improves Sleep

According to the Arthritis Foundation, studies have shown that women between the ages of 50-75 were more likely to relieve insomnia after taking one hour walks each morning.

Lightens Your mood

One great bonus of walking is that it releases natural, pain killing
endorphins. A study in Long Beach, California showed that the more you walk throughout the day, the better your mood was.

Supports Your Joints

Walking not only lowers blood pressure, but it brings oxygen and nutrients to your bones and joints. This is beneficial because it allows for better circulation throughout the entire body.

Burns Fat

Walking helps you burn off stored blood sugar. In response to that it signals to your body that you are going into a long form of exercise. This allows your body to burn stored fat.

Improves Circulation

As mentioned before, walking increases your heart rate making your blood pressure lower and overall strengthens the heart. Walking simply one to two miles a day can go a long way for heart help and circulation.

Lastly, one of my personal favorite workouts on the treadmill is called the 12, 3, 30. This workout was created by YouTuber/Influencer Lauren Giraldo. 12, 3, 30 means walking 30 minutes on the treadmill at 12 incline and 3 speed. This workout is a great way to increase endurance and burn fat in a short amount of time.

Overall, exercising in any shape or form is a great accomplishment. Whether it is a simple walk around the block or a full on weight lifting session at the gym it is just good to get your body up and moving. Especially during this global pandemic, it is easy to find yourself stuck in the same routine in your room. Get out and get your walk on!

Do not get discouraged.

Cora Shircel