As the world becomes more and more sedentary, it’s become even more important to prioritise physical activity. Especially for children.
The easiest, safest and most effective way to do this? Walking, of course!
Not only is walking a sustainable and low-impact form of exercise, it also offers a wealth of health benefits. For both adults and children.
In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of walking and how you can make it a fun and enjoyable activity for the whole family.
The Benefits of Brisk Walking
Walking is a fantastic way of getting your daily dose of exercise. It’s a relatively low-impact activity that is gentle on the joints.
This makes it an ideal choice for children and adults of all ages and fitness levels.
Here are just some of the benefits of walking.
Walking Improves Cardiovascular Health
Walking gets your heart pumping which ultimately boosts your cardiovascular health.
People who participate in brisk walking has been shown to have less risk of getting heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
In fact, people who already suffer from cardiovascular disease show a marked improvement in their symptoms just by taking a walk every 20 to 30 minutes a day.
Walking helps Manage Weight
We all want to stay slim and fit. And walking definitely helps with that. Food is not the only important factor when it comes to weight management.
Exercise plays an important role too. Walking is not only a simply and easy workout.
It also helps burn excess calories, helping you and your kids maintain a healthy weight.
Even a short walk can help boost your metabolism, helping you continuously burn calories throughout the day.
Walking Reduces Stress
Walking also greatly improves your mental health.
Not only does it help with stress and anxiety, but walking have also been shown to improve sleep.
Taking on outdoor stroll especially, instead of grinding on a treadmill is a hundred times better. The fresh air and natural surroundings help boost the therapeutic benefits of walking.
Helping you relax and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Walking Improves Bone Density
As we grow older, our bones get weaker. This results in a condition known as osteoporosis.
Everyone naturally succumbs to this as they reach their sunset years. But walking can delay this reality, helping you stay stronger longer.
Walking, as well as any weight-bearing exercise, helps to improve bone density.
Which is all the more important for adults.
Walking Boosts Energy
Do you or your kids often suffer from fatigue? Well walking may just be the answer to get that pep back in your step.
Walking has been shown to boosts energy levels.
This is because walking increase blood flow and oxygen throughout the brain and body.
When your body gets much needed oxygen, it is able to function at optimal capacity.
Improved cognitive function and improved mood are just some of the perks.
How to make Walking Enjoyable for the Whole Family
There is no better way to spend quality time with your kids than walking.
Not only is it a good bonding activity, it’s also a good opportunity to get in some much needed exercise.
Here are some tips on how to make walking fun for the whole family.
Spice things Up
Make your family’s walking routine into a fun expedition.
Organise an impromptu scavenger hunt or nature walk.
Get your kids to find different plants, animals, or landmarks along the way to keep them interested.
Set Goals
Set some realistic goals for you and your family to achieve together.
This could be a certain number of steps or a distance to walk each day or week.
Use a fitness tracker like an app, to track your family’s progress and celebrate.
Once those goals are achieved, you can celebrate the milestone together.
Make it a Game
If walking gets a bit boring after while, you can get little creative.
Mix up your walking routine by trying different routes or adding in some fun activities like jumping jacks or lunges.
Or better yet, take a break in between walks by playing a fun game like tag (which involves a lot of running).
This will surely keep your kids interested
The First Steps to Better Health
Walking is a simple and effective way to improve your health and well-being. It’s easy, free and can be fun if you really play your card right.
But most of all, walking offers numerous benefits for the whole family.
By making walking fun and productive, you can turn a simple activity into a daily habit that everyone in the family enjoys.
So, lace up your shoes, grab your family, and take a brisk walk today to keep the doctors away!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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