Walking is a child’s first accomplishment, and as we grow older, it without a doubt is an essential movement. But as the years go by, we tend to take this simple movement for granted and end up walking as per our comfort, not paying heed to our posture, our pace, and other things which matters. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic is upon us, we long to go for a walk amidst the lockdown.
The effects of lockdown range from mental to physical. But if something as simple as staying at home can help humanity to break the chain, we all should follow the norms. As we come together by being apart, the onus of staying healthy is upon us. Walking is a simple exercise that one can practice from the comfort of our homes. Or, if your locality is one that has contained the severity of the pandemic, you might just have the liberty to step out of your homes for a little bit of exercise.
Walking has a variety of benefits for your body and mind. An everyday activity, if done right, can have a positive impact on your health. Let’s shed some light on some of them :-
Why walking?
Step towards burning calories
Walking can help you burn calories that will further aid in maintaining or achieving your goal weight. Walking can also strengthen the muscles in your legs. During the lockdown, you can also add resistance exercises squats, lunges, and leg curls to tone and strengthen your leg muscles.
Improve heart Circulation
Walking aids in reducing the risk of heart disease. It also gives you the added advantage of bringing up the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and strengthening the heart. As per researchers, women who walk 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of a stroke by 20% and if you step up the pace, it goes upto 40%.
Boosts immune function
Walking may reduce your risk of developing a cold or the flu. Studies have shown that those who walk at a moderate pace for 30-40 minutes a day had 43% fewer upper respiratory tract infections. Implementing a daily walking routine can help you boost your immune system as it requires a systemic movement of your muscles and respiratory patterns.
Improve your mood
If you are experiencing mood swings or are in a bad mood, rather than binging on junk, go for a walk .One of the best ways to beat the blues is to walk for 15-30 minutes to lighten your mood. It can help reduce anxiety, depression, and make you feel better.Walking can also boost self-esteem and reduce symptoms of social withdrawal. It releases natural endorphins ones that can make you feel less dull.
Improve Sleep
In this lockdown, working from home daily only makes your mind tired and not your body. This could result in disturbed sleeping patterns as you need to be physically tired as well to have a good sleep. Walking in the evening can help relieve insomnia.
Support Your Joints
Other than these benefits, one of the most significant benefits of walking is that it supports your joints in the following ways –
- Keeps your bones and joints aligned properly
- Decrease wear and tear on your muscles, and ligaments
- Prevent back, hip, neck, and leg pain
- Reduces muscles aches and fatigue
- Reduces the risk of injuries
- Improves your overall balance
Instead of waiting for gyms to get back in action, or longing for a trainer to help you out, begin today and see the gradual change that happens in your body over time!
Team IndoreHD urges you to please maintain social distancing at all times, wear your masks, and don’t forget to sanitize.