There are SO many health benefits of walking. It’s good for the mind, body, and spirit, and helps you feel good. Not only that, but it can also help you out while you’re on your weight loss journey. Even when I’m not able to go to the gym, I still manage to get a walk in each evening which helps me maintain my weight, and I also find that it even helps me sleep better. Walking is probably the easiest form of exercise you could do because it doesn’t take any special equipment, and you can do it just about anywhere you go.

Today we’re going to talk about some of the benefits of walking, but also tips for making your walking experience that much better.

First, the benefits - they truly are amazing:

1. Walking reduces body fat
2. Lowers resting pulse rate
3. Reduces blood cholesterol
4. Reduces blood pressure
5. Increases metabolism - thus helping you to lose weight
6. Increases flexibility and tones muscles
7. Reduces stress
8. Improves problem-solving
9. Improves self-esteem
10. Maintains bone density

–Walking Tips - Make your walk better!–

• Walking Shoes - Buy a pair of comfy walking shoes, you’ll need them!
• Walk with a friend - Find someone that you can walk with - either a friend, family member, or a walking group in your community
• Incorporate walking everywhere - Instead of fighting for that close parking spot, park farther away and walk
• Get those arms movin’ - When you walk, get those arms moving. Elbows should be bent at a 90 degree angle, and they should move with each step you take
• Solve your problems - If you ever feel stressed or have a lot on your mind, take a walk to think things through and sort things out
• Get a pedometer - Count your steps and try to take about 130 steps each minute for a great workout

Sources: MSN Health, UMICH

Additional Reading:
• Benefits of Walking for 30 Minutes
• Healthful Benefits of Eating Apples
• Results of Getting Paid to Lose Weight
• Weight Loss Myths and Facts
• Is Your Weight-Loss Goal Realistic?

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