IJPA - The Natural - Walk on By...

Walk on By...

Walking as an exercise is growing in popularity. It’s low risk and easy to get started. Numerous studies have proved its health benefits, including an 8-year-study of 13,000 people which found that those who walked 30 minutes daily had a significantly lower risk of premature death than those who seldomly exercised.

A consistent walking program can benefit your health by reducing blood cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, increasing cardiovascular endurance, boosting bone strength, and burning calories and keeping weight down. A 120 lb. person, for instance, walking at 3 mph will burn 34 calories if walking for 10 minutes and 206 calories for one hour; a 150 lb. person would burn 43 and 258 calories, respectively.

Unlike many exercises, walking is inexpensive, low-risk and easy to do. Just grab comfortable clothes and sneakers. Begin with a five-minute walk and gradually increase your distance.

TIP:
The old standby peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a good quick and easy snack to eat before walking that will give you an energy boost. After your walk, try a smoothie by blending ice, juice, yogurt and your favorite fruit preserve in place of or in addition to fresh or frozen fruit.