Walking is often overlooked as a form of exercise, but it should not be underestimated. Not only is walking convenient and simple to do, but it also has countless health benefits that make it one of the most practical forms of physical activity. Just minutes a day can lead to improved physical and mental well-being. From boosting your mood to improving your cardiovascular health, there are many reasons why you should start incorporating regular walks into your daily routine. So come on and take the first step towards better health – walk this way!
Here are 3 surprising ways to use walking as part of your healthy lifestyle:
1. It protects against dementia. Combatting the cognitive decline that often comes with old age is achievable through regular exercises, such as walking which increases cerebral blood flow and reduces your risk of vascular disease. Keeping up with a good fitness regimen is one of the most powerful weapons against dementia.
Fun fitness tip: Add some of your favorite, lively music to your iPod and take it with you on walks. Research has demonstrated that not only does listening to music make exercise pleasurable, but also it increases both endurance and intensity!
2. It improves your mood. A brisk walk can boost your mood and may even help you treat depression. Research shows that depressed adults who walked for 30 to 45 minutes five times a week for 12 weeks showed marked improvements in their symptoms when medication alone did not help.
Fun fitness tip: Get outdoors! When the weather permits, take your walk outside, for a dose of vitamin D and an even bigger mood boost. Research reveals that group walks in nature were associated with significantly lower depression and perceived stress, as well as enhanced mental well-being.
From boosting your mood to improving your cardiovascular health, there are many reasons why you should start incorporating regular walks into your daily routine.
3. It boosts your overall health. Research indicates that a vigorous walking routine can help reduce your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and overall risk of heart disease. Additionally, this form of weight-bearing exercise may stave off bone thinning caused by osteoporosis or even the development of certain cancers; in particular, females who walk for at least seven hours per week are less likely to contract breast cancer. Walking is more than just an ideal way to get fit – it’s also protective!
Fun fitness tip: Can’t find a full 30 minutes to walk? Spread it out throughout your day — 10 minutes here and 10 minutes there will add up if you stick with it. Breaking your workout into several shorter workouts throughout the day is just as effective as one longer workout session, while also making it easier to fit exercise into your schedule.
How Avanti Senior Living at Augusta Pines Keeps Residents Active
Avanti Senior Living at Augusta Pines is dedicated to providing residents with an active and healthy lifestyle. The community boasts a wide variety of activities and amenities to help engage residents in physical activity and encourage them to lead healthier lives.
The grounds of Avanti Senior Living at Augusta Pines are perfect for walking, thanks to its lovely landscaping and courtyard. The community also offers a wide range of fitness classes, from low-impact aerobics to balance and strength training. Residents can enjoy walks with friends or participate in outdoor activities such as gardening.
Avanti Senior Living at Augusta Pines is committed to helping its residents maintain a healthy lifestyle. The community provides the perfect environment for seniors to enjoy a regular walking routine, and with its many activities and amenities, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
