This month, make a resolution to march your way to better health. Walking has been proven time and again as one of the simplest, cheapest and most effective forms of exercise to reach long-term and short-term health goals among the elderly. Although some of the benefits are obvious, such as weight management and increased heart health and muscle tone, others come as more of a surprise.
Check out these 5 unexpected health benefits of walking that go the extra mile.
1. Increased cognitive function
The results of a study performed at Scripps College in Claremont, California give a whole new meaning to “a walk to remember.” The study compared 62 people aged 55 to 91 exercising, to an equal number of people the same age not exercising. Both groups received a series of tests meant to examine memory, reaction and reasoning. The results? Regular exercisers performed significantly better in all reaction-time tests, all reasoning tests, and two out of three of the memory tests.
2. Stronger bones
Muscle strength is an obvious result of any exercise program, but stronger bones? Turns out walking helps with that, too. Walking is considered a low-impact weight bearing exercise, meaning that it works your body against gravity while staying upright. Regular walking can help stop the loss of bone mass for those with osteoporosis, without the bodily risks associated with jogging and other high-impact aerobics.
3. Better breath
Go ahead, eat your garlic bread. Walking increases the rate of oxygen flow through your body, thereby eliminating waste materials. So long as you drink plenty of water before and after your walk, you can give “breathing fresh air” a whole new meaning.
4. Decreased risk of colon, breast and endometrial cancer
Physically active individuals have a 24% less chance of contracting colon cancer, 12% less chance of breast cancer, and 20% less chance of endometrial cancer. Although the exact reasons for the link between cancer and exercise are not agreed upon, scientists guess that it could be due to the increased circulation and decreased inflammation associated with exercise.
5. More good days
Any and all aerobic exercise benefits mental health by alleviating anxiety, depression and negative mood while enhancing self-esteem and cognitive function. Just thirty minutes of moderate walking, three times a week can make every day seem a little bit brighter. And if thinking about walking for thirty minutes straight brings on the type of anxiety you’re trying to avoid, don’t fret. Studies show that the same benefits can be achieved through three ten-minute walks rather than a single long walk.
No matter what your current fitness level, it is never too late to start incorporating a walking regimen into your weekly routine. Remember that it’s okay to start slow. Try walking for 10 minutes after every meal or walking with a qualified caretaker who can ensure your confidence. And if you’re feeling confident, try amping up your walking by adding light weights or balancing exercises. Make March your month to walk to better health.
If your loved one needs help with starting and maintaining an exercise routine, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers that are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.
