How 15 Minutes Of Walking Per Day Can Change Your Body

Mar 12, 2018

Regular exercise is a great way to keep sharp both physically and mentally. According to recent studies, just 15 minutes' walking each day will add as much as 7 years to your life due to the myriad of benefits. 

So if you're the sort of person who struggles to find time for exercise, promise yourself just 15 minutes for a brisk walk around the block. If you have a dog then this is beneficial both for you and your pupper!

By walking for a short period of time each day, your bones and muscles are strengthened in such a way that aches and pains are less likely to rear their ugly head. Those suffering from Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) saw the most benefit in this area.

Moderate to brisk exercise, including walking, has been shown to reduce blood pressure and the associated risks.

If you're finding your thoughts are a little foggy of late, try going for a walk! Both children and adults saw an improvement in their cognitive performance during studies following a brisk walk.

Several studies have noted the benefits of regular exercise for those suffering from diabetes or at risk of becoming diabetic. Diabetes is impacted by blood flow so regular exercise will improve blood flow and thereby help with control and prevention of this disease.

Feeling blue? Then head outside and discover a new corner of your neighborhood! Walking even a short distance has been shown to improve a person's mood and help give them a more positive outlook on life.

A recent study found that the risk of mortality from cancer was significantly reduced, even in those with advanced forms, when the sufferer took a brisk walk each day. What's more, those who continue this practice after being cured saw a dramatic reduction in the risk of reoccurrence. 

• Wear comfortable shoes!
• Walk at least 3.5 miles to feel a real difference
• Pick up your speed by shortening your stride but increasing the pace
• Posture is important: Be sure to keep your head up, looking forward, with your shoulders down and relaxed
• Don't forget your arms: Your arms work together with your legs so pump your arms at a 90 degree angle to add a little momentum to your strides
• If you want to ramp up the difficulty, try walking up inclines or steps to increase your heart rate and burn more calories!

1. Skip the elevator in favor of stairs
2. Walk your dog or go with a friend
3. Listen to a podcast to make it more interesting
4. Walk to work or school
5. Squeeze in a quick walk after lunch
6. Evening walks can be a romantic occasion as well as healthy
7. Suggest "walk and talk" meetings in the office
8. Get off a few stops early and take in the surroundings
9. Park your car a little further away to force yourself to walk 

If this inspired you to get out there and pound the streets, be sure to SHARE so you can inspire others!