By jharmon on May 19th, 2009

Five Basic Benefits of Walking

Whether you’re walking for health reasons, for pleasure or just because your car broke down, taking to your sneakers has a lot going for it.

Physical health

Walking burns calories, which can help you keep your weight down. Also, walking builds those leg muscles and strengthens the heart, thus keeping the blood pressure lower. Want to live longer, don’t you? Then walk! This exercise is great for decreasing the chances of stroke, heart attacks and other illnesses.
Mental health

When you are feeling blue, very often you just want to sit at home on the couch and eat a bowl of potato chips. But getting out and walking can help relieve stress and depression. So lift your mood with a stroll.
Environmental health

Yep, believe it or not, walking is green. It’s good for the environment simply because you’re moving your body and not moving a vehicle that uses gasoline and spews out all kinds of fumes. And if you can walk to work, you’re helping to reduce traffic congestion.
Economic health

Walking can help you save money. The next time you need to head out to the convenience store for a loaf of bread, walk instead of taking the car. You just saved on gasoline!
Sleep health

Walking can even help you sleep better at night. Walking tires the body while also getting your body in better physical condition. That means you can have a deeper sleep and you’ll feel more rested when you wake up.