19 Benefits of Walking

For 40 years I have been studying and researching how to nourish and keep our bodies healthy and strong throughout life and into our senior years. There are many factors, but after all these years I believe they boil down two – (1) a mostly raw, vegan diet and (2) adequate, daily physical activity. Let’s talk about daily physical activity... The easiest way to obtain adequate physical activity is with a daily walking program. For the past 40 years I have tried to walk at least an hour a day and still, now in my 80s, I continue to try and get in at least an hour of walking daily. In answer to someone who asks: “What are the benefits of walking?" I share the following:

1. Doesn’t require special equipment.
2. One of the easiest ways to get more active.
3. Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
4. Helps with weight management.
5. It’s accessible to everyone.
6. It’s a low-impact exercise.
7. Lowers low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
8. Raises high-density lipoprotein (HDL – the good cholesterol).
9. Lowers blood pressure.
10. Reduces the risk of abnormal cell growth.
11. Helps reduce risk and aids with management of type 2 diabetes.
12. Improves mood.
13. Helps maintain lean muscle tissue.
14. Helps maintain strong bones.
15. Reduces the risk of heart attack.
16. Less likely to lead to injury.
17. Reduces stress.
18. You don’t have to pay for it.
19. Builds aerobic fitness.

If you haven’t already made walking at least an hour a day a part of your schedule, make it a priority! If you haven’t been walking, start slowly and work up to a little more time each day until you have reached an hour a day. You will be glad you did as the above 19 benefits reveal. All you need to get started is a good pair of walking shoes!