Posted 1:45pm
I was reminded yesterday, as we walked through Clissold Park on our weekly health walk, just why we organise this event. The day was sunny, dry, and not too cold - considering it was just five days before Christmas.. We were a smaller group, but that is to be expected with family gatherings and trips away.
However, we chatted about lots of subjects, as per normal, one of which was the benefits of walking - especially in an organised group. We natural;y encourage people to walk every day - and this should be easy for people to do. But very often I hear the excuses of "I don't have the time" or "It's boring" or "I'm too busy". All of which are rubbish.
Walking is free and mostly outdoors (I guess you can use a treadmill in the gym - as long as you put it on a slope and do it at a pace that gets you out of your comfort zone). But walking has so many benefits - linking it with a healthier lifestyle (including nutrition and routine)
These are just a few:
it can help control cholesterol
it can help control blood pressure
reduces risk of stroke or heart attack
builds cardiovascular endurance
burns calories - so helps with weight management
better oxygen circulation
better blood circulation
stimulates digestion
can help insulin work better - part of controlling type 2 diabetes
can help prevent some cancers
can help people stay fitter as they get older, improving independence
can help reduce anxiety and depression - releasing various hormones through activity
can help improve self-confidence and esteem
strengthens muscles and loosens joints - also improves balance
boosts energy levels and fights fatigue
Obviously we could continue listing more and more. This, though, is why we started Izzwalkz, and why we want to expand it around the borough of Islington. Hopefully, 2019 will bring us the funds to do this.
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