Walk Challenge: Oct ’23

Walk Challenge: Oct ’23

The benefits of walking are well known so let’s take advantage
during this first full month of fall….

In yoga, we get lots of good stretching, relaxation, and mental renewal, but, by and large, we are limited to our yoga mats, for the most part. So it is integral for us to get out and move, and there are few things better than taking a good, strong walk.

There are a few ways to do this: by distance, by timing, by speed etc. Whether you prefer to walk 3 miles, or walk for 40 minutes, or test your speed walking prowess, the main thing is to get out and do it. Best is if you can break out a bit of a sweat and generate deep breaths. For those looking for a bit of a challenge, you may incorporate spurts of jogging as well.

Here are some tips and guidelines from the Mayo Clinic:

Physical activity doesn’t need to be complicated. Something as simple as a daily brisk walk can help you live a healthier life.

For example, regular brisk walking can help you:

Maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat
Prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancer and type 2 diabetes
Improve cardiovascular fitness
Strengthen your bones and muscles
Improve muscle endurance
Increase energy levels
Improve your mood, cognition, memory and sleep
Improve your balance and coordination
Strengthen immune system
Reduce stress and tension

The faster, farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits. For example, you may start out as an average walker, and then work your way up to walking faster and walking a mile in a shorter amount of time than an average walker, similar to power walkers. This can be a great way to get aerobic activity, improve your heart health and increase your endurance while burning calories.

You can also alternate periods of brisk walking with leisurely walking. This type of interval training has many benefits, such as improving cardiovascular fitness and burning more calories than regular walking. And interval training can be done in less time than regular walking. (Courtesy Mayo Clinic)

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