Are you an outdoor walker? Do you prefer a treadmill? Or do you go to a local community center and use a track to walk around? Some malls even have a walking group.  There are a number of different ways to get your steps in, that's for sure.

Walking is a fantastic low-impact exercise, that offers so many physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

I love getting up on the cool mornings and head out for a walk to start my day, most times I will have my ear buds in listening to a good book or a podcast.  I love weaving in and out of the streets in my local neighbourhood, waving and catching up with neighbours and of course saying hi to all the puppies along the way.

A good old fashion walk may have more benefits than you ever realized.

Here are more than a dozen benefits to getting your steps in...

Improved Cardiovascular Health - As we age regular walking helps to maintain a healthy heart by increasing circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease, strokes, and high blood pressure.
Enhanced Mobility and Balance - Walking strengthens leg muscles and improves balance, reducing the risk of falls and increasing overall mobility. 
Weight Management - Walking can help women manage, maintain, or even lose weight, as it burns calories and helps to manage body composition.  Walking can help women with their overall health and can be particularly relevant for women who are more prone to weight-related issues. 
Hormonal Balance - Regular exercise, including walking, can help regulate hormones and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with menstrual cycles and menopause. 
Joint Health - Gentle walking can ease joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis by lubricating the joints and reducing inflammation. 
Better Bone Density - Weight-bearing activities like walking can help maintain and improve bone density, women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, and walking can help reduce this risk.  Overall walking can help improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and bone-related issues. 
Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer - Studies suggest that women who engage in regular physical activity, including walking, may have a lower risk of developing breast cancer. 
Stress Reduction - Walking releases endorphins, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being, which is especially beneficial as we age and are dealing with life changes and/or anxiety. 
Social Interaction - Group Walking or walking with friends and family can provide valuable social interaction, helping to reduce the feelings of loneliness or isolation. 
Improved Mood & Mental Clarity - Regular walking has been linked to improved cognitive function, memory, and a reduced risk of cognitive decline in seniors.  Walking can be especially beneficial for women in terms of reducing stress, managing mood swings, and immproving mental well-being.  This can be particularly relevant during hormonal changes like menopause. 
Enhanced Digestive Health - Walking can aid in digestion, which may be particularly helpful for women experiencing digestive issues.  
Improved Sleep - Physical activity, like walking, can contribute to a better quality of sleep, helping to enjoy restful nights and feel more refreshed during the day, is beneficial as women often struggle with sleep disturbances during menopause.  
Longevity - Research suggests that regular walking can contribute to a longer, healthier life by reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being. 
Reduced Risk of Stress Urinary Incontinence - Pelvic floor exercises, often incorporated into walking routines, can help reduce the risk of stress urinary incontinence, a common issue for women, especially after childbirth. 

I must admit even I was not fully aware of ALL the benefits of walking; I was aware of the basics like it's good for your cardio as well as good to clear your head and help with stress.  But there really are so many more benefits, and it's easy to do.  Hey, if walking regularly is good for urinary incontinence...then I'm in...lol 

Trekking Poles are a great idea if you think you might need a little more stability while you are out walking, and they transition nicely when you take your walking to the next level with maybe a different terrain or maybe you want to start hiking.  

Here is a link for a great pair of trekking poles from Amazon...

Click Here For Trekking Poles 

If you are thinking of walking on a regular basis, then make sure you have proper running or walking shoes geared for the type of walking you intend to do.  Start off with a smaller route if you are new to walking (as a form of exercise) and you can grow from there.  When your ready maybe check out local walking or hiking groups in your area and meet others with a similar interest.  And of course, don't forget to stay hydrated!  

Walking is a simple yet effective way to improve

your overall health and quality of life.

Aileen Blair
Aileen Blair

Thank you for reading my post, I hope you enjoyed it! My hope is to help you as I share my health and wellness journey as well as places I love to visit and travel to. If there is a topic you would like covered please feel free to mention it in the comments below. Thanks again and enjoy the rest of your day!

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