11/06/2025
Walking 5–6 hours a week offers significant health benefits, including weight management, reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes, stronger bones and muscles, and improved mental health.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF WALKING:
*Weight management: Regular walking can help you maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat.
*Chronic disease prevention: Walking helps prevent or manage conditions like heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
*Bone and muscle strength: It strengthens your bones and muscles.
*Mental health: Walking can improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
*Immune function: It may boost your immune system, leading to fewer sick days and milder symptoms when you do get sick.
*Sleep quality: Walking can lead to better sleep at night.
*Joint health: It can reduce arthritis-related pain and protect joints from developing conditions like osteoarthritis.
HOW TO GET STARTED:
1. Pace yourself: Aim for a brisk pace where you can still talk but not sing.
2. Listen to your body: If you feel joint pain, stiffness, or other signs of overuse, dial back your distance or take a rest day. Consult a doctor if pain persists.
3. Use proper gear: Wear good shoes and consider using trekking poles to reduce strain, especially on longer walks.
5. Stay consistent: You can spread the 5–6 hours out over the week, such as walking 45-60 minutes, 6 days a week.
