At Ballarat Allied Health we love supporting you to achieve an active and health body. Today we are talking about the health benefits you can achieve with simply walking. For such an accessible and approachable activity, walking certainly delivers some remarkable health advantages. So…why walk?
1) It’s easy!
Walking can be done anywhere and at a time that suits you - not the gym timetable. Simply pop your gear on, tie your laces and head out the door. Take the dog, take the kids, the whole family can benefit. First thing in the morning, or a stroll after dinner - you choose what works for you. Explore your neighbourhood, who knows what you’ll discover?
2) A good workout can help you get quality shut-eye.
Want to fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested? Get moving! As little as 10 minutes of walking can dramatically improve the quality of your nighttime sleep, especially when done on a regular basis.
3) Stress be gone!
Like any other cardiovascular exercise, brisk walking boosts endorphins, those ‘feel-good’ hormones which can reduce stress and alleviate mild depression, improving your mood and self-esteem. And even better when you walk with friends. So stride it out and feel good!
4) More energy and less fatigue? Yes, please!
According to a 2008 study, individuals with sedentary lifestyles experienced a significant boost in energy (20 percent) and a 65 percent reduction in fatigue after following exercise programs centred around walking.
5) Disease prevention
Regular daily walking has been shown to reduce the incidence of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer - it’s a no brainer…
6) Pull the belt in a notch or two..
Physical activity, such as walking, is important for weight control because it helps you burn calories. If you add 30 minutes of brisk walking to your daily routine, you could burn about 150 more calories a day. Of course, the more you walk and the quicker your pace, the more calories you'll burn. So, if you’re indulging in Plate Up Ballarat during the month of May…get walking! It’s all about balance…
Join the Ballarat Allied Health team for Walk It Off - a guided walk through the Ballarat CBD on Sunday May 19, from 9am.
Book a spot HERE - it’s free…and there’s coffee at the end!
Hit the Plate Up Ballarat website at www.plateupballarat.com.au for a list of all the brilliant events during this festival in May.