5 benefits of walking
As Hike Nova Scotia prepares to launch its NS Moves program (pending COVID restrictions!), I thought this would be the perfect time to talk about the benefits of walking. The idea behind this program is to get Nova Scotians outside walking and to improve their overall health. But what good is this activity if it isn’t strenuous, physical labour? Well, here are just five reasons why walking is a beneficial and underrated form of exercise!
1. It makes your heart happy
Walking improves your cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness!). This means, blood flow increases, your risk of heart disease lessens, and your heart rate will improve. The better your cardiorespiratory capacity, the less you experience running out of breath doing every day activities, and actually overall those activities will become easier over time!
2. It helps with weight loss and maintenance
Whether your goal is to lose weight or maintain it, this activity can help. Walking helps to burn calories, which helps with weight loss. As you increase the intensity of your pace, the benefits in this area will be greater. It also makes you thirstier, which means you’re likely to drink more water, which also helps with weight loss (and just overall good nutrition!).
3. It tones muscles
In the same way that walking helps with weight loss and maintenance, it also helps to tone the muscles we use while we are doing it. Specifically, walking targets the legs, glutes and core. If you engage your core while you walk, it will increase this in the stomach (as my mother always said - stomach in, chest out, head high!). Your arms can also get a bit of a workout - especially if you’re an arm swinger!
4. It can be an individual or group activity
Walking is one activity that is enjoyable whether you’re on your own or in a group setting. Sometimes you might enjoy one more than the other, even if you do like both options. The time to reflect and be on your own is extremely beneficial. But the social benefits of walking in a group are also important to note. There’s just something good about returning from a good walk and talk!
5. It increases mental health
Building on the previous point, walking helps to improve mental health. I wanted to pull this one out specifically, because mental health is so important - and it’s been a real challenge for many of us over the last year and a half. Walking is one of the easiest ways to boost your mood. It’s also been shown to reduce anxiety and mild depression. This is not to suggest that mental health challenges will go away if you walk more, but it can be one of many treatment options that can help you. Of course, a medical professional is the best resource for diagnosing and treating severe cases of mental health*.
So there you have it - 5 great reasons to get outside and go for a walk. Rain or shine, this is one activity you can’t go wrong with. Just be sure to dress appropriately!
If you’re interested in joining a NS Moves walking group, check out Hike Nova Scotia’s website. You will also find me leading a weekly group Monday evenings at 6PM. Because of current gathering limits, participation is limited - contact me to find out more.
*If you are struggling and need help, please contact the Canadian Mental Health Association. If you are thinking of suicide, please reach out to the Canadian Suicide Prevention Service by clicking the link, by calling 1-833-456-4566 or through text at 45645.
