We all have 30 minutes a day that we fritter away right? Netflix binges, looking at selfies and funny cat memes, navel gazing. Well, if you grab every minute of that time and chunk it together, there’s 30 extra minutes a day that you didn’t realise you had that you can use for….walking (it ain’t rocket science peeps!)
From supporting a healthy immune system, to boosting your metabolism and strengthening joints, muscles and bones, not to mention it’s amazing for stress relief and enjoying a little “me” time. Here’s what else you can expect when you start walking for just a half hour daily:
Walking will improve your mood. A glass of wine or a square (or three) of dark chocolate can blunt the edge of a rough day—but going for a walk is a zero-calorie strategy that offers the same perk. (And, if you do it, more than likely you can justify that wine or choccie afterwards anyway!)
A decrease in anger and hostility. Some boffin said that walking actually modifies your nervous system, moreso if you are strolling through greenery or soaking in a bit of sunlight. Less so if you are lost in the Mojave desert.
Stay connected. If you make your walks social – stride with a partner, friend or your kids (nah, then you will lose the anger and hostility advantage) – the interaction helps you to feel connected which can make you feel happier.
Burn calories. Regular walking can help improve your body’s response to insulin, which can reduce belly fat. You may not notice it on your scales, but if your pants fall down – Winner!
Improve your digestion. If coffee is currently your go-to for keeping things moving, get ready to start thanking your daily walk instead.
Amp up the creativity. Those who know said walkers are more creative than sitters.
Other goals start to seem more reachable. When you become a regular walker, you will have established a regular routine, and when you have a routine, you are more likely to continue with the activity and take on new healthy behaviours.
The best part is you don’t have to go cray cray. Small distances each day can result in a 2% body fat loss in just one month. Who doesn’t want to be a part of the 2 percenters???
So I put the challenge to you. Every day, for 7 days, walk for 30 minutes only. Log the distance you walked over those 30 minutes, and do your best to get more meterage in with each walk. Happy tramping peeps!
