by Goldflinger Kuzbinger

Has your love for walking left you wondering about its health benefits? Or have recurrent injuries made increasing your running distance a marathon itself? You’re in luck; the merits of walking extend beyond mere recreation. Not only does walking keep cardiovascular risks and mental stress at bay, but a study from a significant health institute found that walkers enjoyed more health benefits than runners when using the same amount of energy. Particularly, the benefits included reduction in heart disease, cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

The Walking vs. Running Debate

Deciding between running and walking becomes easier once you understand the comparable benefits each one confers. With minimal impact and less injury risk, a long walk nearly matches a short run in terms of calorie burn. Throw in essentially hilly routes, and you’re onto a high-reward, low-risk fitness plan.

Gregory Smith, a renowned sports scientist, conveys his endorsement for walks over runs. Despite the higher energy expenditure in running, the fatigue sets in faster, limiting the duration. Walking, on the other hand, lets you build your endurance over time without the pressure of quick exhaustion.

Endurance expert Annabelle Lawrence echoes Smith’s sentiment, having discovered the benefits of long walks following her brief wellness break due to a personal health issue. She shares, “I found that after building up walking, recovery was much quicker than it would be after an easy run covering the same distance.”

Walking and Mental Health

Walking goes beyond merely boosting your physical health; it helps detoxify your mind and promotes creativity. Several studies have indicated that a 90-minute stroll in a natural setting decreases activity in brain areas associated with depression, compared to a walk in an urban setup. This breath of fresh air can be a potent tool for those grappling with mental health issues.

Outdoor therapy conducted by Carmen Reynolds, a walking therapist, harnesses the therapeutic power of nature, helping people navigate their feelings with a sense of liberation. Kathy Kincaid, a physical trainer, and counselor who integrates walking into her sessions observes, “when you’re mindful of your surroundings, it can induce feelings of gratitude, which is immensely helpful during challenging times.”

The Cognitive Boon of Walking

Walking also ups the ante for your cognitive function, contributing to better memory, and providing protection against cognitive decline. Recent research indicates that the hippocampus—the brain’s region associated with memory and learning—increases in size with regular walking.

Professor Shane O’Donnelley, author of ‘Walking: The Underestimated Superpower’, argues that walking sparks an interaction between the brain and body that enhances our sensory experience. He adds, “this interaction acts as a self-repair mechanism for the brain and body.”

Now that you know the numerous health benefits of walking, why not step up your game? Follow our 13-mile training plan, and embrace the joy of walking today!

From Casual Walks to Half Marathon: A 13-Mile Training Plan!

Boost your daily walks to marathon levels in just eight weeks with our intentionally designed walk training plan. The shift from habitual walks to something more demanding doesn’t have to be daunting. You’re all set to start your walking adventure!

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