This low-cost, low-impact exercise can help you lose weight efficiently and healthily.
In pursuit of a healthy lifestyle and weight loss, many people are looking for effective and convenient alternatives to include exercise in their routine. Among the available options, walking is a great choice. More than just aerobic exercise, it offers a series of benefits that directly contribute to the weight loss process.
A study published in the scientific journal says so Medicine and science in sport and exercisejust five minutes of walking every half hour can offset the negative effects of sitting for too long. This amount of movement significantly reduced both blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
According to the research, this walking regimen had a dramatic effect on how participants responded to meals, reducing blood sugar levels by 58 percent compared to those who spent the day sitting without exercising.
In addition to a aerobic exercisewalking is a great ally in everyday life. This is because you will need almost nothing that you don’t already have: light clothes, suitable sneakers and a bottle of water.
“An excellent option also for sedentary people or for those who adopt a lighter pace, but do not give up physical activity. Walking increases the body’s metabolism and generates a high caloric expenditure”, says Dr. William Komatsu, physiologist of the physical activity.
Below, check out the 11 benefits of walking in your weight loss process!
1. Burn calories
Walking is a form of aerobic exercise that burns calories, contributing to the calorie deficit needed for weight loss.
2. Accelerates metabolism
Walking regularly encourages metabolismincreasing calorie consumption even at the end of the exercise.
3. Appetite control
Walking helps regulate appetite, reducing the desire to overeat and controlling food urges.
4. Improves cardiovascular health
Physical activity, such as walking, strengthens the Heartimproves blood circulation and reduces the risk of heart disease.
5. Stress reduction
Walking is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety, which often contribute to weight gain.
6. Improves sleep quality
Walking regularly is associated with improvement quality of sleepessential for a healthy metabolism and weight control.
7. Strengthens muscles
Although it is a low-impact activity, walking helps strengthen the muscles of the legs, buttocks and abdomen, contributing to a healthier body composition.
8. Increases energy and mood
Walking regularly increases the production of endorphins, hormones linked to well-being, providing more of them energy and disposition to carry out daily activities.
9. Improves mental health
In addition to relieving stress, walking can also improve mood, reduce symptoms of depression, and promote a greater sense of mental well-being.
10. Increases physical resistance
Walking regularly increases physical resistance because it improves cardiorespiratory capacity and strengthens the muscles of the legs, buttocks and core, allowing you to practice physical activity for longer periods.
11. Accessibility and zero cost
Hiking is a completely free activity. You don’t need to pay monthly gym memberships or invest in specific equipment. Simply wear comfortable sneakers and you’ll be good to go.
You can practice walking at any time of the day you deem appropriate. Whether it’s in the morning, during lunch or in the evening, you have the freedom to adapt yours time according to your routine. Furthermore, you can walk in different places, outdoors in parks, on beaches or even indoors in a large space.
Dr. William Komatsu simply emphasizes that you need to be careful when choosing the location for your walk. “Choose parks or wooded areas, as studies have shown that pollution reduces the body’s absorption of oxygen, thus reducing its performance,” he explains.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
