Exercise does not have to be expensive, complicated or time-consuming. Your lifestyle change can be as simple as a 30-minute daily walk.
Whether you make walking your method to jump-start your day, use it as a moment of peace during your lunch break, or as a tool to wind-down in the evening, taking that time to prioritize yourself is essential to maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle.
Boost your “feel good” hormones. When you partake in exercise, such as a 30-minute walk, your body releases endorphins which are often called the “feel good” hormone that improves your mental state and helps to manage stress.
Maintain overall wellness. Studies show walking helps maintain a healthy body weight, increase balance, coordination, and energy and it can even help you sleep better. Walking 10,000-12,000 steps per day can also significantly lower blood pressure. It’s even been proven that consistent walking is as effective as running in lowering blood pressure.
Ease joint pain. Low impact exercise increases blood flow to the cartilage that helps lubricate your joints and protect the ends of the bones within. Walking can decrease stiffness and increase range of motion, relieving pain and even preventing the onset of physical disability due to arthritis.
To make sure you are getting the most out of your daily walk, utilize the proper technique:
- Hold your head high with your eyes straight ahead
- Move arms naturally with a slight bend in the elbow
- Maintain good posture with your back straight
- Keep your shoulders loose
- Gently tighten your stomach muscles
- Walk smoothly with your feet moving from heel to toe
So get outside, tune into your favorite song or podcast or enjoy the natural sounds around you, and give yourself the gift of a good walk.
Looking to step-up your exercise game even more? Hoag’s online exercise classes offer guided training in core strength, cardio, yoga, pilates, and mindfulness.
Visit https://www.hoag.org/community-education-classes/fitness/ to try out one of our upcoming classes.
