Hurray! Spring is in the air and the warmth of summer is just around the corner. The thought of it brings a smile to most faces and a newfound feeling of energy. Often in winter we tend to hibernate a bit with hot, nourishing meals and quiet nights wrapped up in front of the telly. While this is very comforting during the colder months, it doesn’t do much for our fitness, circulation or energy levels. This is often why we feel more lethargic during winter. But now that winter is over it’s time to swap the Ugg boots for a pair of trainers and “step into spring”!
Every step you take counts and regular walking has some amazing benefits:
- Get fitter – walking at the correct pace will definitely raise your level of fitness. A good check is to measure your walking route and aim to complete 5.8 kilometres in one hour. Hill climbing will also give you an additional workout, as will working to increase your speed overtime.
- Increase energy – a short, brisk walk can really wake you up if you’re feeling a bit sluggish. Increasing your general fitness through regular walking will help you feel more energised as your body starts to work more efficiently. Even if you’re under the weather a gentle walk can be beneficial as research consistently shows that exercise can help boost your immune system.
- Reduce stress – walking is a great way to remove yourself from a stressful environment. Once you’re pounding the pavement, focus on your breathing, the scenery or just listen to the birds sing. Allow yourself this time to just be with yourself and not be thinking about what’s on your To Do List!
- Lose weight – any weight loss plan requires exercise to be a part of it and walking is a natural choice. It can be done anywhere, anytime and its low impact nature means that it’s kind to joints and has a very low risk of injury. Regular walking will help your body burn fat and also strengthen your muscles which is a must for anyone looking to change their shape.
- Improve your mood – regular walking can provide feelings of happiness and positivity due to the hormones your body releases when you exercise. It’s often hard to get going but once out and moving you also feel a sense of achievement for doing something you know is good for you!
Always make sure that you have good, supportive shoes when walking and that you walk with your eyes straight ahead to ensure good posture. If you’re walking at night, it pays to wear reflective gear so that you can be seen, and obviously confirm that the area you are in is safe. If you’re still struggling from motivation, perhaps find a friend who is keen to join you or sign up at your local walking group. Walking is such a great way to stay fit and healthy and best of all it’s super easy to start – just open your front door and off you go!
