for the active
WALKING – THE HIDDEN BENEFITS
Walking is the perfect remedy for improving your health and happiness. For most of us, it is as simple as putting on a comfortable pair of shoes and opening the front door.
Why is walking the best exercise? Because you can go anytime, anywhere without any special equipment and because you can start slowly and build at your own pace. Walking is gentle on your joints and best of all it is free and permitted during the Covid-19 pandemic.
One of Australia’s biggest health problems is that we are too comfortable on the couch. Over the last 20 years our activity levels have decreased, and as a result our health has declined. If the thought of exercise is daunting – the good news is that you don’t need to exercise vigorously. Walking is perfect.
The health benefits of walking are impressive:
- Sleep and blood pressure improve
- Reduced risk of depression and dementia
- Bones strengthen, reducing your risk of osteoporosis
- Weight and blood sugar are easier to control (particularly if you have diabetes)
- Good cholesterol increases
- You will feel happier (especially if you walk in nature)
Ideally you want to be walking for 30 minutes 5 times each week. Build up to this gradually. Depending on your current fitness levels you might start with 10-minute walks twice a week, then gradually increase. Walking never needs to be boring. It is so easy to add variety by walking with your dog or a friend, varying your route, exploring parks and gardens or joining a local walking group.
It is a good idea to see your Doctor before starting an exercise program, particularly if you are on medication or you do not currently exercise. If you have diabetes, ensure that your feet and shoes and checked regularly by a podiatrist. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat!
Stuck for ideas? There is a plethora of walking tracks and options on the Victoria Walks website.