Have you ever heard that brisk walking, could be the best physical activity you can do? We do it naturally since our birth, but we tend to neglect it through time, compounded by our day-to-day routine.

Let’s see the benefits this simply activity could bring to your health, and how to start doing it.

Benefits:

Reduces blood pressure and cholesterol

Helps reducing blood pressure and cholesterol to normal levels, as it improves blood circulation;

Fights Depression and Bad Mood

Recent studies, shows that people, who regularly performs a stimulating physical activity like brisk walking, are less likely to feel depressed than sedentary people. It surely helps, reducing negative thoughts and feelings.

Combats Osteoporosis

Lack of exercise, may contribute to lower bone mass or density. Brisk walking, is the ideal exercise to build up your legs, hips and lower spin.

Controls appetite

It helps control your appetite, by adjusting the signals of satiety, fighting obesity.

Improves Breathing

Brisk walking, improves heart rate and strength lungs, reducing shortness of breath.

Prevents Aging

It helps slowing the aging process, preventing or reducing the chances of disease.

Improves health in general

A simply exercise like brisk walking, combined with a good control of your food intake, are two big steps to keep you healthy.

How to start Brisk Walking:

• Wear a light and bright comfortable cloths; Shoes must be comfortable and adequate, to prevent injuries;
• If you walk during the day, be sure to use a sunscreen and an appropriate hat, to protect your skin from the Sun.
• Drink a cup of water before you begin, and during the walk, mainly if you pretend to do it for an extended time;
• You may use a pedometer to track your steps, or if you prefer, you can schedule the route at home with Google Maps;
• Begin slowly, with a steady pace, for at least 5 minutes for warming up the body;
• Start increasing your rhythm, till the point you feel you are walking at a firm and fast pace. Avoid, however, putting to much stress on your joints, and do it at a rhythm you feel you can support till the end of your journey.
• Try to change routes from time to time, to avoid falling in monotony;
• As your physical condition improves, you can diversify your routine. For example, you can choose a more hilly terrain, to do your brisk walking. Trying to challenge yourself everyday, will keep you motivated;
• Keep a log of your walking sessions, with details like days performed during the week, distance covered, average speed, calories burnt, etc.
• Have fun.

Try to do brisk walking 3/4 times a week for at least 40 minutes, and you’ll see the results in your shape and health. Noticing the good results will keep you motivated and do this an exercise for life.