Walking

"Walking is the nearest activity to perfect exercise". Professor J Morris and Dr Adrianne Hardman, 1997

The best and easiest form of daily exercise is simple walking, to be precise, brisk walking. It can be done anywhere & anytime, it does not cost anything and has profound benefits. Walk and enjoy walking but without overexertion. I assure you that walking will make you feel good. If you enjoy walking, you will definitely enjoy the benefits afterwards.  

Benefit of walking

Doctors have been advising that walking is good for the lungs, heart and muscles and bone growth. I am sure you remember the old quotes by George Trevelyan,  
“I have 2 doctors, my left leg and my right” 

The Health benefits of walking are numerous. 

Studies show that walking can : 

reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, 
lower blood pressure, 

reduce high cholesterol and improve blood lipid profile, 

reduce body fat, 

enhance mental well being, 

increase bone density, hence helping to prevent osteoporosis, 

reduce the risk of cancer of the colon, 

reduce the risk of non insulin dependent diabetes,
help to control body weight, 

help osteoarthritis, 

help flexibility and co-ordination hence reducing the risk of falls. 

(Sources: Davison & Grant 1993, US Dept of Health 1996, British Heart Foundation 2000)

Walking for fun with family gives you more joy and the best thing is that you do not feel as if you are exercising. 

Few Do’s of walking 

• Get a loose outfit, preferably cotton and most importantly, get good comfortable shoes  
• Before you start walking, do a 5-minute warm-up through stretching and spot running  
• Once you start walking, start slowly, gradually build your pace to brisk walking and continue for at least 30 to 40 minutes and finally slow down till you stop  
• After you stop walking, repeat the stretching exercise to tone your muscle  
• You can also cool down by doing some deep breathing exercises as taught in yoga (I will cover this later)  
• Most importantly, before starting your brisk walking exercise, please see your doctor and get the “green light” 

Testimonials : I have seen many people in their mid 70s and even 80s in Canada who had been walking for 30 to 40 years and keeping themselves fit. 

If they can do it, so can you.

Video on Fitness walking :