Health Benefits of Walking

Much nicer weather is upon us and summer is right around round the corner. The sunshine can make for a pleasant outdoor walk and is a great opportunity to take a break from the often stressful office environment. Not just that, walking has mutliple benefits to our health and wellbeing.

Getting outside for a walk is completely free, easy to do and beneficial for both body and mind. While often seen as a leisure pursuit, a brisk daily walk for just 10 minutes can reduce the risk of early death by 15%, according to Public Health England.

Walking can...

Boost mood: Walking increases blood flow to the brain, reducing stress and lifting mood.

Help Heart Health: Walking may improve cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and fight weight gain, all beneficial to overall heart health.

Burn Fat: Lower intensity exercise burns a higher percentage of calories from fat. Regular walking can aid weight loss and improve fitness levels.

Relieve Pain: Walking strengthens the muscles that support the spine and may ease lower back pain and stiffness.

Support Joints: Joints don’t have a direct blood supply, so they need movement to deliver oxygen. Walking helps keep joints mobile.

Strenghten Muscle: Regular walking strengthens leg and abdominal muscles, including quadriceps, hip flexors and hamstrings.

Build Bone Mass: Weight-bearing activities—like walking—are best for building bone mass. Additionally, walking in the sun boosts vitamin D absorption, which is vital for overall bone health.

For more information on healthy living, visit the NHS website.