Modern life is all about making everything easier. But a sedentary lifestyle leads to problems. Our bodies were designed to walk, to run. When the musculoskeletal system is active, it leads to all internal organs working optimally.
If walking is not already part of your daily routine, find just five minutes to step outdoors and within two months you will be making it a priority.
Start walking gradually – five, 10, 15 then 20 minutes. Your body will respond positively.
- Walking just one step uses 200 muscles and these pump oxygen around our body, making us more alert and productive
- Burn 75 calories by walking 2mph for 30 minutes, 3mph is 99 calories and 4mph is 150 calories
- Walking just 20 minutes a day can transform fitness levels, improve your health and reduce anxiety and stress
Make some time for walking in your lives and only good things can happen:
Try a walking meeting at work. Swap the air con for fresh air and boost your energy and productivity with your office team.
As the weather perks up, why not plan lunch alfresco instead of al-desko? Invite your friends and colleagues on a picnic. Pack a picnic rug and healthy snackage and then get walking to find the perfect spot. Half of us eat at our desks at least four times a week. Make a new tradition at work.
Skip a stop in the morning and the steps will soon add up. Can’t manage to walk the whole way to work? Jump off the bus earlier or park further away. You’ll be amazed how far you can walk in the time it takes to weave through rush hour traffic.
Take the ‘long cut’. Plan ahead for an extra 20 minutes outdoors and explore parts of your local area you wouldn’t normally see. Google and find points of interest. Walking in parks and tree lined streets reduces negative thoughts.
Find new walks for you and your four-legged friends. Time with your dogs is a proven mood booster as is immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Rambler groups publish footpath maps and detailed information online. The sense of achievement having navigated a route also leaves you on a high. Not got a dog? Borrow one!
Access private Physiotherapy at Benenden Hospital
If you're recovering from injury and walking is a struggle for you, our experienced and compassionate team can help with your recovery, supporting you in maintaining your independence.
During your initial consultation, our Physiotherapist will take the time to talk to you about your condition, carry out a thorough physical examination and discuss your goals for recovery.
They’ll put together a physiotherapy treatment program, tailored to your needs to help you manage your recovery for the longer term and aim to help you to try and prevent your injury reoccurring.
To book your first private physiotherapy session at Benenden Hospital, please book online or contact our Private Patient Team via Livechat or on 01580 363158.
Published on 21 May 2023