With the various restrictions on gyms and health clubs, everyone is looking for alternatives to keep fit. The benefits of brisk walking have made this outdoor activity a popular choice among people of all age groups. This no-equipment, no-investment activity can transform the way you look and feel. Read on to find out how!
Brisk walking is when you walk at a higher pace than normal. Ideally, to get the brisk walking benefits, you should aim at getting in 100 steps per minute. However, this varies from one person to the other, depending on the level of physical activity that they are used to doing and the stamina that they have. Brisk walking is one of the best cardiovascular activities that not only helps you lose weight but also improves your overall health and functionality.
# Healthier Heart This is one of the most obvious brisk walking benefits. When you perform cardiovascular exercises like brisk walking, you increase your heart rate. This means better blood circulation and strengthening of the muscles of your body. Studies have also shown that walking regularly is effective in reducing the bad cholesterol levels in your body. This is the best preventive measure against heart diseases and other comorbidities.
# Faster Weight LossWhen you brisk walk for 30-45 minutes each day, you burn a lot more calories than you would with regular walking. You can lose up to 100 -150 Kcals with just 30 minutes of brisk walking. The best thing is that the more speed you gain and the longer you walk, the faster the weight loss.
# Better Functionality
Brisk walking involves a higher range of motion in your arms and legs. This is very useful for your joints. As you increase your pace and duration of walking, you will also build more muscle mass. Together, these advantages of brisk walking help you function better physically. You will notice that your body also becomes more flexible over time as you are really working your muscles without any external resistance. Of course, your stamina also increases when you brisk walk regularly, allowing you to stay energized all day long.
# Good MoodBrisk walking benefits can be attributed to the nature of this physical activity. You are out in the open, getting in the fresh air, and moving your body. All these factors influence the way you feel from within. Brisk walking releases endorphins or happy hormones that elevate your state of mind and keep you in a good mood.
Studies show that a few minutes of brisk walking each day can help individuals suffering from mental health issues like depression and anxiety. It is also known to help you think clearly and focus more on the tasks that you perform.
# Blood Pressure RegulationThe advantages of brisk walking include regulated blood pressure. It is known to reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Once the blood circulation improves, your blood pressure remains normal.
Low bad cholesterol levels also prevent any clogging or blockages in the arteries, thereby reducing any chances of developing hypertension. When you lose weight as a result of brisk walking, it automatically lowers your blood pressure, making you healthier.
# Better Joint HealthAll the nutrients that your joint cartilages get nutrition and oxygen from the fluid that surrounds them. The cartilages that cushion and protect your joints do not have any direct blood flow. This means that the movement of this fluid surrounding them is crucial to keep them well-nourished.
The brisk walking advantages for your joints come from the compression of the cartilage as a result of a faster and bigger movement. This allows the influx of nutrients and oxygen to the area, keeping your joints healthy.