Ralph (not his real name) has been practising brisk walking for three years now. He does this five times a week for 40 to 45 minutes, and shares that it has offered many benefits, from maintaining his physical shape and body strength to clearing his mind and providing an overall sense of satisfaction.
He had previously participated in various sports such as cycling, hiking, basketball and football. A few years ago, however, he developed problems with his knees and had to reconsider his love for these high-impact activities that would only aggravate his joints.
After consulting his doctor and doing some research, he learnt that the best exercise for his knees was brisk walking. According to sources, brisk walking has a number of advantages over running, including better results for blood pressure and cholesterol, and fewer leg and spinal injuries.
Brisk walking at approximately 6-7km per hour is not necessarily an exhausting or demanding activity. Yet, despite its low intensity, just 45 minutes will leave you feeling physically fitter.
While running is certainly more efficient for weight loss, brisk walking can achieve similar results as long as it is carried out consistently. Interestingly, Ralph has found that after going for a walk, he does not need to control his food consumption as he doesn’t feel excessively hungry after.
Brisk walking is also great for practising mindfulness, which can lead to better mental health. One can focus on the present moment, taking in the sounds, sights and smells of one’s surroundings while decluttering one’s mind.
It is easy for these things to go unnoticed when in the rush of the day-to-day; brisk walking allows you a chance to immerse yourself in the environment around you.
In his three years of brisk walking, Ralph has never been injured. Before, when he ran, he would feel the occasional knee pain, stretched ligaments, or sore muscles. These days, he is able to avoid issues.
While both running and brisk walking are excellent for stress relief, Ralph finds walking to be an easier and more natural way of entering a meditative state. Of course, a person should try both activities to determine which is better for their overall health and happiness.
TELEME Healing Life Stories is a collection of inspirational stories of how ordinary people triumph over their health conditions and recover to lead a healthier life. Email [email protected] to share your story.
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