Walk This Way

I know you can hear the guitar riff of that song right now. You know I love a vintage hit, so I thought it would be perfect for today's post. I want to talk about walking, I know, big shocker. 

Walking is the most natural, accessible, and budget-friendly exercise out there. There are TONS of impressive benefits to surpassing the 8000-step mark. 

I know 8000 steps may seem like a big number (I encourage my clients to do 10,000), but it really is attainable! It doesn't need to be a big chunk; actually, little walks throughout the day are BETTER. Just move any way you can throughout the day. Walk while talking on the phone or scrolling social media. Do walking meetings with coworkers or set up a standing desk or treadmill desk for your WFH gig. Even parking further from the store or, yes, taking the stairs...I know, I know...makes a HUGE difference. 

Here are some of the benefits:

Boosted Cardiovascular Health

Walking more than 8000 steps a day gets your heart pumping, and a happy heart means a healthy heart! This low-impact exercise improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Walking may be gentle on your joints, but it's a powerhouse for your heart!

Mental Clarity and Sharpness 

Walking has been shown to enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and increase focus. So, if you're feeling mentally foggy, a brisk stroll can clear your mind and leave you feeling like a walking Einstein!

Free Therapy 

Walking in green spaces and soaking up some Vitamin D can reduce stress and anxiety and boost your mood. Nature walks are like free mental health sessions, and who doesn't love freebies? Want to level up the benefit? Listen to your favorite playlist or podcast while you walk. 

Weight Loss 

A study in the Journal of Exercise Nutrition and Biochemistry showed the positive effects that walking could have on burning fat and reducing waist circumference. The women-only walked between 50-70 minutes 3 days per week for a total of 12 weeks. After the study, they found that the study participants lost an average of 1.5% body fat and 1.1 inches around their waists. Yeah.

What is one change you can make this week to get that step count up?