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Can walking help reduce obesity?

November 12, 2013

Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, and it’s something that most people can accomplish. Walking doesn’t put as much stress on joints, muscles and bones as running, but it’s still an effective choice for physical activity. This makes it an ideal exercise option for people of all ages and those dealing with medical conditions that make more high-impact exercise a challenge. With your home gym equipment, it’s easy to spend at least 30 minutes a couple of times a week walking on your home treadmill like a True M50 Home Treadmill.

Walking can lower someone’s risk of becoming obese
Studies have shown that walking is an effective method of weight loss for a variety of reasons. It can help lower LDL “bad” cholesterol levels while giving a boost to HDL “good” cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a side effect of obesity, so by shedding pounds, you’ll lower these levels to a more healthy status.

“Walking works large muscle groups – quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteal muscles – as well as other muscles in the lower legs and feet,” Joanne DiFrancisco-Donoghue, a registered clinical exercise physiologist with the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, told the Livestrong​ Foundation.

DiFrancisco​-Donoghue also noted that working these muscles can improve blood circulation and help it pump better through the body, improving oxygen transport as well as cardio endurance and bone health. All of these benefits can assist with weight loss and reduce the risk of obesity.

Walking is a perfect exercise option for those dealing with obesity
Walking is something that you can do everyday on a fitness treadmill no matter what the season is or what the weather is like. If you’re new to exercise, you can start at a slow pace of 2.0 or 2.5 miles per hour at little to no incline. Once you feel comfortable with the motion of a treadmill, you can increase the speed and incline level. Altering these variables keeps your workout interesting and continuously challenges your body so you will likely keep seeing results.

Because walking doesn’t put excessive stress on the body, it’s a form of fitness that all people can take part in, no matter if they’re already in shape or not. If someone is dealing with obesity, creating a walking regimen ensures they are exercising without putting too much strain on their body. Walking for just 10 minutes at a time in the beginning can help, and once a person begins to see results like weight loss, they will be even more motivated to continue.