Although a walking workout may not seem to be a workout at all, a good walk can do far more than you may realise. Since I was a child, I have loved walking. Back then, it was often less by choice and more because we only had one car. My mom and I would often take a long walk home after she fetched me from school. She made the walk fun by what we called ‘the metal game’. The aim of this game was for me to avoid stepping on any metal on the pavement, and for my mom to try and get me to step on metal. Without fail, it had both of us giggling away. The walks ended up being something I enjoyed.
Later, walks became time to talk and hash out frustrations. Today, I walk to get to around and I also walk for fun. I also love walking with friends. There is something about a good walk and talk that always leaves me feeling better. Even on my solo walks, I get time to think and I also get to enjoy being out in the fresh air. When I need to step things up, I do a walking workout. That’s when I start to feel really good. Like, ‘just done an amazing workout’ good.
Why Do a Walking Workout?
Although I miss running and hope to get back to it this year, a walking workout is often less hectic and more ‘doable’. Even a 30-minute walk at a brisk pace can get the heart rate up and allow you to work up a sweat. Here’s the thing about walks, though: they are good for the mind, body, and soul.
If you’re wondering why it’s worth taking a brisk walk, here are some of the top reasons to get out and moving.
- Let off steam. Feeling stressed? Tired? Bored? Frustrated? Sad? Whether you’ve had a bad day or you need a boost, a good walk is the best way to let off steam. Walk around your hood or try a scenic walk somewhere pretty. Walk alone or with a buddy. Stop to take in the sights around you, smell the flowers (literally and figuratively), enjoy the fresh air, and let yourself escape for a bit.
- Loosen joints. Unlike high-impact exercises, walking is good for the joints. When my arthritic hip starts to complain, I find that walking really helps. It keeps joints loose without overstraining or risking injury. As long as you keep a pace that works for your body, you will also be able to loosen tight muscles as well.
- Increase fitness. Finally, don’t underestimate the effect that walking has on your fitness. It is a fantastic way to slowly ease back into working out if you have been sick or get started on exercise if you are new to working out. You don’t need any equipment aside from comfortable shoes. You can slowly pick up your pace as you get stronger. Combined with something like yin yoga or pilates, you get a nice full-body workout.
If you have some time in your afternoon or morning, do yourself a favour and try a walking workout.
