"Walking changes your body"... 6 medical benefits of walking exercise

Walking exercise is the safest and most effective way to improve health. Regular 30-minute walks can bring about very dramatic changes in our bodies. Just how much medical benefit can be gained from walking exercise? Based on information from American health and medical media outlets such as 'Healthline,' we explored this topic.

 

 

Reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as various cancers

 

It reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke by about 30%. Regular 30-minute walks not only increase good cholesterol (HDL) and decrease bad cholesterol (LDL), but also lower blood pressure. It also helps prevent diabetes, colon cancer, breast cancer, and uterine cancer.

Maintain an appropriate weight

 

It creates a virtuous cycle of weight control. For a person weighing 60 kg, walking 3.6 km for 30 minutes a day burns 150 calories. However, it is meaningful because increasing muscle mass raises the basal metabolic rate, thereby establishing a positive feedback loop for weight management.

 

Defeat dementia

 

It also has a preventive effect against dementia. Walking about 10 km a week helps prevent brain atrophy and memory loss.

 

Prevent osteoporosis

 

Walking outdoors during the day not only increases the production of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, but also enhances bone density, helping to prevent osteoporosis.

 

Strengthen and enhance muscle strength

 

Not only does it strengthen the thigh muscles, but it also enhances various other muscles. Walking uphill helps strengthen the gluteal muscles, aiding in creating an "apple-shaped" hip, and also strengthens the abdominal muscles.

 

Evoke vitality and happiness

 

It induces vitality and happiness. Walking exercise improves blood circulation, increasing oxygen supply to cells in the body, and relaxes tension in muscles and joints, boosting vitality. This effect is comparable to that of common antidepressants. It also helps in the formation of endorphins, making it effective in reducing stress and anxiety.

 

 

 

Kwon Soon-il Reporter (kstt77@kormedi.com)