Want to increase your metabolism? Lose some belly fat? Try walking faster!
Photo via Ideastreams
What are the real benefits of walking faster if you still just walk the same distance? Well, here’s why it’s better to speed walk, according to the National Institutes of Health.
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Raises your heart rate to a higher heart rate zone. Easy walking is often done in the light intensity zone, while brisk walking will raise your heart rate into the moderate-intensity zone.
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Improves weight loss efforts (with increased calorie burn) and increases fitness and endurance.
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Increases flexibility of your muscles and joints depending on your walking pattern and your starting point. Stretching after walking will help you improve flexibility.
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Strengthens muscles especially your leg and abdominal muscles. Walking may increase your range of motion as well as shift pressure from your joints to your muscles.
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Increases impact but less than running and jumping. This is a two-edged sword. More impact can introduce or aggravate injuries. On the plus side, it can build stronger bones and slow down osteoporosis.
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Gives you the benefits of decreased health risks if you’re regularly walking for 150 minutes per week in the moderate intensity zone.
So, are you ready to walk faster?
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
