I get this question all the time, and since I just finished my standard 3-mile “easy day” walk, this article seems appropriate …
According to American Sports Data, a Hartsdale, N.Y., sports research firm, about 14.5 million Americans now consider themselves ?regular walkers.?
? What are the health benefits of walking? Can something so easy really do any good?
According to the President?s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, moderate daily exercise can substantially reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. It also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, eases symptoms of anxiety and depression, reduces osteoporosis risk, and helps with weight management.
? Will I lose weight on a walking program?
A 150-pound person will burn about 100 calories a mile.
To lose weight, most experts recommend walking five or six days a week. As with any exercise program, the body tends to get acclimated to a certain level of activity. That means, mix things up. Vary the duration, intensity and/or terrain to keep the body challenged.
? How does walking compare to running in fitness payoff?
Mile for mile, walking and running burn about the same number of calories, McCormick said. Running just burns them faster.
The big difference comes in stress on the body. Because walking is low-impact, there?s less stress on knees, ankles and hips. For many people, that?s very important.
To learn even more, check out my old friend and former client John Reich’s AllWalks.com.
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