Although almost everyone often walks, the benefits of walking have not been widely realized. In fact, if done regularly, this activity can provide many benefits for the health of the body, from losing weight to maintaining heart health.
Walking is often taken for granted compared to other, more strenuous activities, such as jogging or cycling. In fact, several studies show that walking can provide many benefits if done regularly, at least 30 minutes every day.
Various Benefits of Walking
Walking regularly accompanied by a healthy lifestyle can provide various health benefits. Following are some of the benefits:
1. Maintain heart health
Walking has benefits for heart health and prevents cardiovascular disease. This is because walking can increase heart rate and blood circulation in the body, as well as strengthen the heart.
However, if you have a history of heart disease, you should first consult a doctor to find out the right duration of walking according to your health condition.
2. Lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure
Not only maintaining heart health, walking can also lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and maintain stable blood pressure. This of course can reduce the risk of heart disease.
3. Prevent type 2 diabetes
Moderate exercise, including walking, can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 50%. This is because walking and other sports can trigger muscle work so as to increase glucose absorption.
4. Lose weight
The benefits of walking on this one are certainly very much expected by many people. By walking for 30 minutes every day, you can burn at least 150 calories. The faster your steps, the more calories you burn.
This can help you control your weight, thereby making your body healthier. However, walking alone is not enough. You need to balance it with a healthy diet.
5. Strengthens the immune system
Walking regularly can also increase endurance and prevent various infectious diseases. A study shows that someone who walks for 30–45 minutes every day, gets sick less often than those who don't exercise.
6. Reduce stress
Regular walking can reduce and prevent stress. When walking or doing other physical activities, the body releases endorphins that can improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression. In addition, walking also makes sleep more sound.
7. Prevent osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is caused by thinning of the bones so that the bones become porous, brittle, and prone to fracture. To prevent osteoporosis, you can try walking regularly every day. The benefits of walking for bone health can also be combined with other activities, such as: hiking and jogging.
In addition, there are various other benefits of walking, such as relieving joint pain, increasing energy, and strengthening muscles. Therefore, don't be lazy to walk so that your body's health is maintained.
The health benefits of walking are many. However, if you have certain medical conditions that don't allow you to walk for too long, consult your doctor to find out what other types of exercise you can do to maintain your health.