All it takes is one step. Literally, walking is one of the most underrated workouts for women. Find out about the health and mental health benefits a stroll can provide.
Women may feel pressured to do specific types of workouts like weight lifting, HIIT, CrossFit or aerobics. While each of these workouts are immensely beneficial and address different needs, walking is a simple, accessible but overlooked exercise with powerful benefits. It’s effective for both the body and mind, and we show you how to make it part of your lifestyle.
Physical benefits
Walking is undoubtedly effective for weight management. It may not feel like it at first because we may associate high-impact exercise with faster weight loss. Not true. Walking is low-impact, but there’s a steady burn, which is great for fat burning. It also boosts cardiovascular health and circulation – especially if you walk briskly or at an incline – and strengthens your bones and joints without overstraining. It’s gentle and effective for all ages, whether you want to shake post-pregnancy weight, manage menopause symptoms, or just stay active in older age. And a bonus benefit is that it helps maintain balance and flexibility.
Mental health & stress relief
Studies show that exercise in general reduces anxiety and improves mental clarity. Taking a walk anchors you in the moment – think of it as moving meditation, especially outdoors or in green spaces. Consequently, it lowers cortisol, improves mood and relieves stress. All this is good for problem-solving and igniting your creativity. To optimise your walking experience, try a walking group with friends. Social walking enhances connection and combats loneliness.
Accessibility & sustainability
How many times have we resolved to join a gym and never got to it because of all the extras involved? All you need to make walking part of your routine is a pair of good shoes – no special or expensive equipment needed. It can also fit into your schedule quite naturally: an office break, school, or shopping runs. Because you use your body to move, walking is easier to sustain long-term and build consistency. This is not to say walking is ‘better’ than the gym, but perhaps incorporating walking into your fitness routine can serve as the ‘gateway’ to more intense and regimented workouts as you build your endurance.
The Bottomline – Walking is free, flexible and beneficial. Sometimes it’s difficult to make the first step to a fitness journey – walking is that first step. Start with just a stroll around the block, follow the pace of your body and build from there. Ultimately, it’s about longevity, balance and prioritising your overall health.
Compiled by Shaneen Noble
First published by Woman and Home
