Walk Your Way to Fitness

By: Charlotte Vitale - Fitness Trainer & Kinesiology Graduate of the University of Rhode Island 

Second year student Physical Therapist at the University of Rhode Island

Physical activity does not have to be difficult or complex. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be accomplished simply with a brisk 30 minute walk a day! Many individuals take for granted this elementary action, yet are unaware of the numerous health benefits it can provide if done properly and consistently. Picking up a routine incorporating a brisk (~3 mph) walk, can decrease the risk of developing heart disease, arthritis and combat the effects of genetic obesity. Studies have been looking into the benefits of a daily brisk walk for years, and they have proven the many positive outcomes of this form of exercise. In other words, get moving! 

As many know, any form of aerobic exercise can help burn off excess body fat. However, did you know that daily walking can also counteract the effects of genetic weight promoting factors by nearly half? When you get your legs moving and your arms swinging, you’re promoting blood flow throughout the body, which also helps to lower blood pressure and break down developing blood clots. Additionally, this action increases the production of fluid in between your joints, which promotes nutrient delivery to your bones and bursa (cushion in between your bones). The Arthritis Foundation states that the increased flow to your bones not only negates the onset or development of arthritis, but it also helps to strengthen bones in general. It was concluded that this simple action can diminish the risk of hip fractures by 40%!

By putting one foot in front of the other, you can walk yourself towards the path to a healthier life!  

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