People who walk for exercise instead of running usually experience these 9 unexpected health benefits

There’s a big myth that running is the best way to get fit. But, walking is often overlooked, even though it’s a great low-impact exercise with surprising benefits.

Walking for exercise, instead of running, does more than just get you moving. It comes with a host of unexpected health perks that most people aren’t even aware of.

For those who choose to walk rather than run, these benefits can be game-changers.

Let’s debunk the running-over-walking myth and delve into these 9 unexpected health benefits of walking.

1) Lower risk of injury

Running is often associated with a host of injuries, from shin splints to knee problems. It’s a high-impact exercise that puts a lot of strain on your joints.

But walking? That’s a different story.

Walking is a low-impact exercise, meaning it’s much gentler on your body. This significantly reduces your risk of injury, making it a great option for those who want to stay active without pushing their bodies too hard.

When you’re weighing up whether to run or walk, remember this – walking might not get your heart rate up as high, but it’ll keep you in the game for longer. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, after all.

2) Improved mental well-being

Let’s get personal here for a moment. After a long day of work, I used to force myself to go running. The logic was simple – burn more calories, get fitter, feel better. But honestly? It was more exhausting than therapeutic.

Then, I switched to walking. Just 30 minutes a day, taking in my surroundings, and letting my mind wander. The change was dramatic. I started feeling less stressed, had better sleep, and overall, felt happier.

Turns out, this isn’t just my personal experience. Research has shown that walking can significantly improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

3) Boosts your creativity

Did you know that a good walk could get your creative juices flowing? Walking has been linked to improved creative thinking. In fact, a study conducted by Stanford University found that walking increases creative output by an average of 60 percent.

That’s right, just by putting one foot in front of the other, you can enhance your problem-solving skills and come up with new ideas.

When you’re stuck on a tough problem or looking for inspiration, consider taking a walk instead of running. You might just find the solution you’re looking for.

4) Strengthens your heart

Walking isn’t just about burning calories or easing stress. It’s also a fantastic way to keep your heart strong and healthy. Regular walking has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

This gentle form of exercise helps lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. It can also keep your blood pressure in check.

Walking not only gets you from point A to point B, but it also keeps your heart ticking along nicely. It’s a simple, yet powerful way to boost your cardiovascular health.

5) Enhances bone health

When it comes to building strong bones, walking packs a punch. Unlike running, which can sometimes lead to bone damage, walking applies a healthy amount of stress to your bones. This encourages an increase in bone density, particularly in your hips and lower body, which are prone to osteoporotic fractures.

In fact, research has shown that postmenopausal women who walk approximately one mile each day have higher whole-body bone density than women who walk shorter distances.

If you’re looking for a workout that’s kind on your joints and good for your bones, walking could be the answer.

6) Time to connect

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose touch with ourselves and the people we care about. Running often becomes a race against time, a solitary activity focused on setting records and achieving personal bests.

Walking, on the other hand, offers us a chance to slow down and reconnect. It’s an opportunity to share quality time with loved ones, to engage in deep conversations, or simply enjoy each other’s company in silence.

It’s not just about exercise – it’s about strengthening bonds, making memories, and enjoying the simple yet profound pleasure of being present in the moment. Walking provides a precious space for connection that’s often missing in our daily lives.

7) A tool for self-discovery

I remember a time when I was feeling lost, unsure about my purpose in life. Everything seemed overwhelming, and I didn’t know how to navigate through the confusion. That’s when I started walking.

In the quiet rhythm of my steps, I found a space to reflect, to question, and to dream. Walking became a journey of self-discovery. It allowed me to tune into my thoughts and feelings, and get to know myself on a deeper level.

What started as a simple exercise turned into a powerful tool for introspection and personal growth. It gave me the clarity I needed to understand myself better and move forward with confidence.

8) Boosts immune function

Regular walking isn’t just good for your heart and bones, it’s also great for your immune system. Studies have shown that people who walk regularly are less likely to catch a cold or the flu.

Several studies have shown that risk walking can increase the number of white blood cells in your bloodstream, bolstering your body’s natural defense against illnesses. Plus, it raises your body temperature, which may help kill bacteria and viruses.

Lacing up your walking shoes and heading out for a stroll could be a great way to keep those sniffles at bay. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to boost your body’s defenses.

9) It’s sustainable

Perhaps the most significant benefit of walking over running is its sustainability. Walking is a form of exercise that’s kind to your body and can be done by almost anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.

It’s a habit you can keep for life. Unlike more strenuous forms of exercise that may become difficult as you get older, walking remains feasible and beneficial. It’s an activity you can adapt to fit your lifestyle, making it a realistic and achievable way to maintain long-term health and wellbeing.

The heart of the matter

The decision to walk instead of run may seem insignificant at first glance, but as we’ve seen, it brings a myriad of unexpected benefits.

From strengthening your heart and bones to boosting creativity and forging deeper connections, walking serves as a gentle reminder of the profound power of simplicity.

In essence, walking is not just a form of exercise. It’s a celebration of life at a slower pace, a testament to the benefits of taking the time to simply be in the moment and move at our own rhythm.

Whether you’re embarking on your first walk or your thousandth, remember this – every step you take is a step towards better health, deeper connections, and perhaps even a greater understanding of yourself. It’s not just about moving from one place to another; it’s about the journey and what you discover along the way.