Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. However, certain lifestyle changes can help prevent the occurrence of this disease. One such change is incorporating walking into your daily routine.
Walking for just 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. But, recent studies have shown that walking an additional 2,000 steps per day can further decrease the risk of heart disease.
Benefits of walking
Walking is a low-impact exercise that has several health benefits. Some of the benefits include:.
- Lowering blood pressure
- Improving blood circulation
- Strengthening bones and muscles
- Reducing the risk of chronic diseases
Walking can also help improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, it is a great way to spend time with friends and family, as well as enjoy the outdoors.
How to walk 2,000 extra steps per day
It may seem daunting to walk an additional 2,000 steps per day, but it can easily be incorporated into your daily routine. Here are some tips to help you walk more:.
- Take short breaks throughout the day to walk around the office or your home
- Use the stairs instead of the elevator
- Park further away from your destination to include more walking in your day
- Take a walk after dinner instead of watching TV
- Use a pedometer or fitness tracker to track your steps and set goals
It is important to gradually increase your step count to prevent injury. Start by adding 500 steps per day and gradually increase the number over time.
Walking vs. other forms of exercise
While other forms of exercise such as running or weightlifting can also help prevent heart disease, walking is a low-impact and low-intensity exercise that can be done by people of all ages and fitness levels.
It is a great way to stay active without putting too much strain on the body. Additionally, walking is a stress-free activity and can be done indoors or outdoors, making it a great option for those who may not have access to a gym or who prefer to workout alone.
Conclusion
Walking is an easy and accessible way to improve overall health and prevent heart disease. By adding an extra 2,000 steps to your daily routine, you can further reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
To make walking more enjoyable, consider walking with friends or listening to music while you walk. Remember to start small and gradually increase the number of steps you take per day.