Obesity has now become a global health concern, made worse by the numerous lockdowns that kept people confined to their homes at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, obesity is not to be taken lightly and it has adverse effects on your health. Besides shortening your life expectancy, obesity puts you at a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
The causes of obesity
Those who are obese are often physically inactive and eat an unhealthy diet of junk food or processed meals. Office workers in particular who spend hours at their desks working on their computers are guilty of leading a sedentary lifestyle and are therefore more likely to gain weight easily.
How to reclaim a lean body
It doesn’t take hours at the gym or committing to a 30-minute high-intensity jog around your neighbourhood to snap back into shape.
A simple physical activity like walking is a highly beneficial and relatively easy way to lose the extra weight and make you fit again.
How long should you walk?
Aim to walk for at least 40 minutes every day. It is the best form of physical activity you can engage in but remember to take a brisk walk rather than a leisurely stroll.
Brisk walking has two benefits. It offers a great cardiovascular workout and also burns more calories.
However, if you have respiratory issues like asthma or COPD, consult your doctor before starting any cardio exercise.
How to get the most out of your walks
If brisk walking is too strenuous for you, slow your pace but remember to walk fast, as much as your current level of stamina allows.
Walking in a hilly neighbourhood will give you a better overall workout than walking on level ground. Try to walk uphill at a brisk pace as this will burn more calories.
Wear a smartwatch to calculate the number of steps you take and the number of calories you burn while on your walk. A smartwatch is a good investment if you want to keep track of your health and fitness levels.
Keep your blood sugar in check
Diabetes is mostly a lifestyle disease. However, in some cases it is hereditary. Whatever the cause of diabetes, keeping physically active will help keep your blood sugar levels in check.
If your blood sugar level is high, make it a point to walk for 15 minutes after every meal – breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This will also help to aid in digestion.
Boost your immunity
Walking can also boost your immunity significantly. Those who walk every day lower their risk of coming down with ailments like the common flu.
Walking is also a mood enhancer. Walking during the day results in the secretion of the happiness hormone in your body that helps regulate your mood throughout the day.
Conclusion
Walking is probably the easiest and most beneficial exercise you can engage in. Instead of letting work and money determine the quality of your life, dedicate some time to taking care of your health.
Some food for thought – in order to enjoy your work and the money you derive from it, you have to be healthy and happy. And remember, it is never too late to walk towards good health.
Erika Peres is a social media influencer, entrepreneur and director of multiple companies. She is a mother of two boys and has a passion for sports, fitness and lifestyle. She can be reached on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.