Walking is low impact, requires minimal equipment and can be done at any time of day. You can get out and walk without worrying about the risks associated with some more vigorous forms of exercise!
Increase your walking speed to stay healthy
To get the health benefits, try to walk for at least 30 minutes as briskly as you can on most days of the week. ‘Brisk’ means that you may be puffing slightly.
If you can’t manage 30 minutes a day, start with a faster-than-strolling, 10-minute daily walk and work up to 30 minutes a day– these short, faster walks also have lots of health benefits and count towards your recommended amount of exercise each week.
You can also do two 15-minute brisk walks throughout the day rather than one 30-minute walk if that is more useful for your lifestyle.
If you're not very active but are able to walk, increase your walking distance and speed gradually.
You could also use a walking app to track your walking – there are lots of free apps available.
Health benefits of brisk walking
Did you know that walking is a weight bearing exercise? This is because you are carrying your own body weight while you walk. This combined with faster walking brings many benefits.
These include:
- Increased heart & lung fitness
- Improvement in conditions such as joint & muscular pain
- Stronger bones & improved balance
- Increased muscle strength & endurance
- Reduced body fat
Disclaimer:
Source: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/walking-for-good-health
