Exercise is good for us regardless of age, but many of us find it difficult to get up early to take our daily morning walk. Not many of us make it a point to incorporate it into our daily routine but we have put together a series of benefits that can motivate you to change this fact. Whether you are looking to stay healthy or improve your overall well-being, walking is a good activity to kick off your health journey before you advance forward with an exercise that is more spirited.
Lowers Risk of Various Diseases
Studies have shown that people who walk for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week can reduce their risk of heart disease. Other research has also shown that maintaining this habit can also reduce the risk of stroke and even colon and breast cancer. Women who walk at least 3 hours a week have a 43% lower risk of getting a stroke. That is almost half your risk of a stroke by simply walking.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
When we take a walk, our muscles use up a higher level of sugar in our bodies. This naturally reduces the sugar content in our blood. Over time, this process can greatly reduce our blood sugar levels and cause our insulin to work better so we can prevent diabetes. For older adults with diabetes or those who experience insulin resistance, walking is a great way to help them naturally manage and reduce their symptoms.
Improves Immunity
Through exercising, the number of white blood cells in the blood can be increased. This makes our body more prepared to combat diseases as our immune system is improved. This has been shown in both women and men and it can be achieved through easier exercise like walking as well as other more strenuous training for older adults. For individuals with medical issues, always consult a medical practitioner to figure out what type of exercise is suitable for their health. This can prevent them from overexerting their bodies which may have detrimental effects on their health.
Helps with Weight Management
Obesity is one of the common causes of various health ailments like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Through walking, we get to burn calories which helps with weight management. We can maintain an ideal weight which is important to prevent diseases which is especially crucial with old age. Walking is also an easy activity that can motivate you to keep up with your routine every day.
Supports Strong Muscles and Joints
Leading a sedentary lifestyle can be life-threatening for older adults. It may cause them to experience both mental and physical pain. By walking daily, older adults will get to strengthen their muscles and joints while also avoiding the inactive way of life. For beginners, it is recommended to start walking on flat surfaces first before progressing onto uneven surfaces to build up smaller balance muscles. Walking is also effective in helping you maintain good joints as it helps to build muscles and stabilize the joints.
