Can’t find time to hit the gym? Here’s an everyday activity that will help you get trimmer and fitter. All you need is the right pair of shoes.
Can’t find time to hit the gym? Here’s an everyday activity that will help you get trimmer and fitter. All you need is the right pair of shoes.
1. It helps you lose weight.
Yes, walking may be low-impact but it can help you drop excess kilos. Research has shown that women who brisk walk for 30 minutes thrice weekly, plus do two moderately paced walks twice weekly, lose up to six times more fat around their waistline than those who only strolled five days a week.
2. It keeps you alive – literally!
Sitting down for extended periods of time could actually shorten your lifespan. New findings have shown that being sedentary is linked to an increased risk of dying from any cause. So sitting down all day without getting up is a big no-no. For extra motivation to move around more, consider getting a fitness tracker to help you clock your steps.
3. It boosts vitamin D.
When you walk more, you’re likely to be in the sun more too. This is a good thing, as you’ll get your vitamin D fix – and some fresh air! So make it a point to get off one train stop earlier on your way to or from the office to soak in the sun. Remember to slather on sunblock with at least SPF 30 before heading outside.
4. It reduces your risk of illnesses.
Your chances of getting a range of health conditions plummet if you walk regularly. Your risk of developing type-2 diabetes goes down. So does your risk of getting heart disease and stroke. Your levels of bad cholesterol go down, while your good cholesterol levels go up. That’s all not: You also reduce brain shrinkage and keep your mind sharp.
