When we think of exercise, we typically imagine strenuous gym workouts or classes that get our hearts pumping. However, exercise doesn’t have to be an intensive thing. You can receive the same benefits you would get from a short, intense workout by spending a longer amount of time working out in a more moderate fashion.
Walking is one of the best ways to accomplish this. It’s free, gives you an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and can be done with company. Even better, just 30 minutes of walking each day will help you avoid a sedentary lifestyle. With National Walking Day arriving on April 4, 2020, now is the perfect time to add this healthy exercise to your routine.
Walking is tied to many different health benefits. For example, it’s been shown to improve heart health. Walking increases your heart rate, which reduces your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even coronary heart disease.
Walking has also been proven to lower blood sugar. This can be invaluable to older adults who struggle with diabetes. Simply taking a 15-minute walk after eating can help your body use its blood sugar more effectively.
Studies have also shown that walking reduces pain from chronic conditions like arthritis. If you’ve been dealing with that or lower back pain, then walking three times a week for just 20 minutes could do a lot to solve your problem.
Walking is also an excellent way to boost your mental health. Getting exercise is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Additionally, walking gives you a chance to bond with friends and family. Having these connections in your life can have a huge impact on your overall happiness levels.
Adding a new exercise to your routine can be challenging. However, there are steps that you can take to make the process easier on yourself. For example, consider starting with a very short walking regiment. You can start with just 5 minutes of walking each day and gradually build your way up to the recommended 30 minutes per day.
Joining a walking group could also make this process easier for you. Consider reaching out to other older adults in your neighborhood. Or, join a service like SilverSneakers to meet other older adults who are prioritizing their health and wellness. Either way, walking with others could be just what you need to make this exercise more appealing.
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Older adults need to use caution whenever beginning a new exercise routine. If you’re concerned about how walking might impact your health, make sure to see a doctor before getting started.
Depending on your coverage, you may even be able to get the visit covered by your Medicare health insurance. If you’re unsure about the extent of your coverage, consider contacting a partnered licensed agent at Time for 65.
They’re the Medicare experts who can answer all of your Medicare health insurance questions. You can contact an agent today by filling out this form or giving us a call.
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