Benefits of walking
Walking is one of the most natural, everyday forms of movement but as we age the way we walk changes. Later in life, our steps become shorter, we walk slower and our posture alters, but this doesn’t mean we should walk less. Walking is a wonderful form of exercise that requires balance and muscle strength.
Why you should walk
It can help you improve your health and overall wellbeing. The benefits of walking are numerous.
Walking helps with:
- Increased muscle strength, helping to minimise immobility
- Healthy weight by helping to maintain a healthy weight
- Immunity as it can boost the immune system
- Chronic conditions and has been known to help lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancers and diabetes
- Improved bone density and can prevent osteoporosis as well as lower the prevalence of osteoarthritis. Walking also lubricates knee and hip joints and strengthens surrounding muscles, which lightens the load on the joints
- Blood pressure and can be very beneficial to hypertensive individuals by helping to lower their blood pressure
- Improved proprioception, aiding in better balance and coordination which reduce one’s risk for falls
- Improved mental wellbeing as it can boost cognitive functioning and mood and help reduce anxiety and depression
- Stamina by improving energy levels
- Social connection as walking with a friend or meeting people along your walking route improves feelings of social connectedness
- Independence and seniors walking without support are more likely to live independently.
Make sure you wear comfortable exercise shoes when walking. If you use a walking aid, like a cane or walking stick, don’t let it put you off. It can help you maintain your balance and ease the load on your joints. Start with shorter distances and gradually build up how far or long you walk.
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