The nicer weather is finally arriving in many places across the country after what may have felt like a long winter. With warmer temperatures, there is no better time to enjoy the outdoors than now. If you need extra motivation to get outside, the health benefits of walking might entice you.
Walking is one of the easiest ways to stay active and has many positive benefits for our health. It can help to improve heart health, aid in stroke recovery, reduce pain and improve physical function. Whether it's already part of your routine, you’re looking for ways to change things up, or you need some convincing to get started, we have compiled some tips to help.
Want to make your usual walk a little more interesting? Look no further than Nordic walking.This form of walking uses poles that resemble those used in cross-country skiing and provides a full-body workout. Despite the addition of the poles, this form of walking may even be less strenuous on the body overall.
Another approach to stepping up your walking game is tracking your performance over time using a wearable device such as a pedometer, step counter, or fitness tracker. Research studies have shown that mobile or wearable digital devices motivate people to exercise more and may help with weight loss.
If you walk occasionally but struggle to make it a part of your routine, some compelling reasons may help convince you. Did you know how fast you walk can be an important indicator of your overall health? Like your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and breathing rate, there is evidence that your walking speed may be an essential new vital sign. In addition to the health benefits walking provides, it also offers the opportunity to socialize and interact with others. Consider joining a walking group to meet new people or walk with a family member, neighbour or friend. A consistent routine and someone to stay accountable can provide added motivation.
To read more about the benefits of walking and ways to diversify your walking routine, watch and read our resources below.
