Everywhere you look, some program or some person is recommending walking as one of the best ways to stay healthy. Walking is a simple yet effective form of exercise that can offer numerous benefits for your physical and mental health. But not all walks are created equal. The type of walking you choose can significantly impact your overall fitness and well-being. Time to look at the different types of walking to see which one is best for you.
First is power walking. Power walking is classified as moderate to high intensity. It improves cardio vascular health, burns calories and strengthens muscles. It is best for anyone who wants a more vigorous workout, lose weight or improve overall fitness. For power walking, you want to walk at a pace that makes you slightly out of breath but you are still able to carry on a conversation. Power walking includes having you swing your arms back and forth while they are slightly bent at the elbows.
Then there is brisk walking which is classified as a moderate intensity activity. It also improves cardio vascular health, strengthens muscles, while reducing the risk of chronic disease and it is best for people looking to increase their levels of physical activity and improve overall health. Brisk walking is less intense than power walking but it involves people walking at a steady fast pace so you get your heart up.
If you would prefer something different, look at engaging in Nordic walking. It is considered a moderate to high intensity activity. It engages upper body muscles, improves posture while enchanting cardiovascular health. It is best for people with joint pain, for those who want a full body workout or for those recovering from injuries. Nordic walking combines the benefits of walking with elements of cross country skiing. You need to get Nordic walking poles because they are specifically designed for this activity and have different features than traditional hiking poles. Stand tall with your shoulders relaxed and your core engaged.To begin, push off with your poles, alternating sides and coordinating your arm movements with your leg steps. Nordic walking requires a strong core to maintain balance and stability.
If you have the right countryside, consider hill walking. It is classified as high intensity and improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens lower body muscles, and challenges endurance. It is best for people looking for a more challenging workout or for people training for endurance events, or as a way to increase bone density. Hill walking involves walking uphill, which provides a more challenging workout than walking on flat ground. If you live in a flat area, you can also reap the same benefits by increasing the incline on a treadmill to simulate walking uphill. You can also take the stairs instead of an elevator, or add resistance by carrying weights while to walk as a way of increasing the intensity.
Then there is interval walking with alternates between high and low intensity. It improves cardiovascular fitness, boosts metabolism, while increasing endurance. It is great for people with limited time, or those who are wanting a more challenging workout or if you want a change of pace. Interval walking is quite easy to carry out. First you need to decide on a specific time or distance for your high-intensity and low-intensity intervals. Begin by doing a few minutes of light walking as a warmup to prepare your body. Walk at a brisk pace for your high-intensity intervals, followed by a slower pace for your low-intensity intervals. Finish your workout with a few minutes of light walking to allow your body to gradually recover.
If you need something different, think about doing a walking meditation. It is considered low intensity but it reduces stress, improves mindfulness, and promotes relaxation. It is best for those who are seeking a mindful and calming activity, those who have anxiety or those who want to improve their mental well -being. Walking meditation is a simple yet powerful technique that combines the physical act of walking with the practice of mindfulness. It involves paying attention to your body, breath, and surroundings in the present moment. To do a waking meditation begin by choosing a peaceful location where you won't be disturbed. Take slow, deep breaths and notice the sensation of the air moving in and out of your body. Observe your surroundings without judgment. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations of your body. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to your breath.
Finally, think about nature walking. The intensity depends on the terrain you walk on. Nature walking is great for reducing stress, improving mood and allow you to connect with nature. It is great for people who need a relaxing and rejuvenating activity, for those who have anxiety or depression or of those who enjoy the beauty of nature. Select a natural area that you enjoy. Take your time and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of nature and focus on the present moment and let go of any worries or distractions.
When choosing the best type of walking for you, consider your fitness level, goals, and preferences. A combination of different types of walking can provide a well-rounded approach to improving your health and well-being. Remember, the most important thing is to find a walking routine that you enjoy and can stick with in the long run. Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear. Have a great weekend.
