Why Walking is the Best Exercise

There are so many different ways to work out. You can take yoga classes, run, jump rope, do weird bungee exercise classes, do HIIT exercises, watch videos from home, go to the gym, and so much more. There are people who train to be bodybuilders and others who run and train for marathons. It can be hard to figure out the best exercise out there. While the best one is the one you enjoy, it can be hard to find an activity you like. The truth is that fitness does not need to be over complicated. And you can get and stay fit anywhere.

How?

Walking.

Yes, walking. Honestly, it’s what we were born to do. And it’s the most natural form of exercise there is.

You Can Walk Anywhere

Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or at home, it’s simple to get in a quick walking workout. Just change out your shoes real quick and get to it. Walking shoes are often more affordable than other athletic shoes. You can even get arch support shoes or plantar fasciitis shoes if you need the additional support they provide. You can do it in any town or city anywhere in the world.

Walking is Easy

There are no complicated moves to do. There are no steps to learn. If you already know how to walk, you can just go do it. No one has to teach you. Walking is the easiest exercise to start doing if you’ve been sedentary for too long.

You Don’t Need Fancy Clothes

Unlike other exercises where you may need special workout wear to be comfortable and safe, you can walk in anything. While you may be more comfortable in sweats or jeans, it’s not a deal-breaker to go for a swift walk on your work break. You don’t need a huge range of movement to do it either, so expensive workout clothes aren’t essential.

You Can Walk With Others

Unlike individualized training plans, walking can also be a social exercise. You can walk at any pace that’s comfortable for both of you and still carry on conversations. Social exercise is a great way to stay motivated as well because there’s someone waiting for you.

Cardiovascular Fitness

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to run miles a day to increase your cardiovascular health. Just 30-60 minutes of walking a day can have a similar positive impact. Walking at a faster pace or over hills can provide just the boost you need to bring that heartrate up and strengthen your body.

Walking is Low-Impact

For those who need lower impact exercises due to joint pain or injury, walking is perfect. The low-impact movements help you build strength and balance, while lessening the force on your body. Running can be very hard on the knees and hips, but walking gives you much of the same benefit without the negatives.

Improves Bone Health

The low-impact movements of walking have the added benefit of improving bone strength. Just by getting out on your two legs, you can help promote bone growth and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. As women age especially, they are more at risk of bone degeneration, so walking can help you build and maintain strength.

Reduces Body Fat

Walking long distances does a great job of helping your body burn excess fat. Many people turn to walking workouts and running workouts because they want to lose weight. Walking is very effective at helping people reach this goal.

Improves Your Mood

Are you feeling in a funk? Go for a walk. Are you bored? Go for a walk. Are you sad? Go for a walk. You get it right? If you need an attitude adjustment, taking a walk is the perfect thing to help. The endorphins that your body releases help to give you a mood boost along with the exposure to sunshine if you walk outdoors.

Helps You Sleep Better at Night

For some strange reason, walking during the day improves sleep at night. Physical activity gives your body what it needs so that it can rest properly at night. This is especially true if you take your walk outdoors. The sunshine promotes healthy melatonin levels later in the day when it’s time to sleep.