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It has been known for a long time that sport has a positive effect not only on our physical health, but also on our mental health. However, we cannot always afford to play sports due to contraindications from the doctor, our physical abilities or due to high costs, e.g. when purchasing the necessary equipment.
Physical activity is very often recommended for people who require long rehabilitation, for example after surgery. Fresh air and exercise are the perfect recipe for physical and mental well-being.
The material was created as part of the #KOCHAJSIEBIE social campaign, encouraging Poles to change their habits – caring for mental and physical health that was severely strained during the pandemic. The action is carried out jointly by Medonet, Onet and United Nations Global Compact Network Poland.
Walking is a recipe for health
Walking is the simplest activity we do almost every day. This seemingly prosaic activity is not only our way of moving, but also a perfect alternative for long hours spent in the gym, e.g. exercising on the treadmill. Walking faster or slower causes the activation of physical and chemical processes in our body, and these processes have a positive effect on our well-being. Experts recommend walking for a minimum of 30 minutes every day, especially when you are not practicing any sports.
Daily walks are recommended for busy people who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Because walking does not require greater involvement, e.g. going to the gym.
Walking is a cheap sport
A walk can be an ideal solution for problems with memory, concentration, sleep problems or stress. Walking does not require specialized preparation and equipment. Regular walking helps to oxygenate the body. This simple training also allows your muscles and joints to relax, so it helps to prevent tension and accompanying pain. It is widely known that walking is recommended for people who have problems with the circulatory system, because it improves our heart rate, which in turn makes the heart pump blood to the entire body without unnecessary obstacles. Walking should be a permanent element in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, for example stroke or heart attack.
Further part below the video.
Walking faster or slowly also increases the so-called good cholesterol, or HDL, while lowering bad cholesterol, or LDL. Walking lowers triglycerides that are so dangerous for our blood. Walking is also an ideal part of any weight loss program. Of course, walking alone will not make us lose unnecessary kilograms, and our figure will be perfect, but in combination with a proper slimming diet, the effects of burning unnecessary calories can be achieved much faster.
According to specialists, walking is useful to strengthen not only the buttocks and thighs, but also the bones, strengthening their density, which significantly reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis. In addition, it causes our muscles to be properly oxygenated, which means that inflammation of muscles and joints is less frequent. Walking on a sunny day ensures you absorb vitamin D, which has many benefits and properties. If walking improves circulation, it means that the risk of varicose veins and spider veins is significantly reduced.
Systematic walking also helps to reduce tension and stress, during such exercise, endorphins and serotonin, i.e. happiness hormones, are released. Oxygenating the brain during a walk counteracts the effects of oxidative stress, which is an integral part of depression.
Walking is good for the environment
If we replace public transport or traveling by car for a walk, not only our well-being and condition, but also the environment will benefit. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, be sure to go for walks! Experts calculate that if one person chooses to walk rather than drive five times a week for a relatively short distance, less than 2 km, they could reduce their own carbon footprint by 86 kg per year.