Walking is a gentle, low-impact exercise that’s easy and suitable for people of all ages and most abilities. Something as simple as a daily brisk walk can benefit you in many different ways. Here are seven reasons to take those extra steps and make walking a part of your healthy lifestyle.

Maintains a Healthy Weight

A good walk can help shape and strengthen your legs, give great definition to your quads, calves, hamstrings and glutes.  If your posture is on key you’re able to tone your abdominal muscles as well.

Reduces Your Risk of Heart Disease

Regular walkers are known to have fewer strokes and heart attacks, have lower blood pressure and have higher levels of healthy HDL cholesterol.

Increases Happiness

Getting active releases feel-good endorphins into the bloodstream, reducing stress and anxiety. 

Gives You Energy

Walking is a great natural energizer! It boosts circulation and increases oxygen supply to every cell in your body, which helps you feel more alert.

Boosts Your Immune System

Walking regularly can lower your risk of macular degeneration, arthritis and even cancer by 50% compared to people who don’t exercise.

Reduces Your Risk of Diabetes

Thirty minutes of walking a day makes your muscles more sensitive to insulin. That allows glucose to do its duty inside your cells rather than pile up in your bloodstream.

Relieves Stress

If you’re looking to relive some stress, walking is a great option! Studies have shown that walking can benefit your mood and may even ward off anxiety and depression.