How Walking And Low Impact Exercises Helps You Lose Weight

When it comes to weight loss, the thought of intense workouts, sweat-soaked gyms, and high-intensity training be bloody scary for a lot of blokes, particularly if they’re just starting out. But the truth is, you don't need to push your body to the limit to shed those extra kilos. Walking and low-impact exercises can be impactful too!

Walking may seem like a simple activity, but it's a powerful tool for weight loss. Here are some reasons why. 
 

Walking is low impact, which means it's gentle on your joints. This makes it an excellent choice, even if you're overweight and/or new to exercise. If health issues prevent you from walking the recommended 10,000 steps per day, don’t be afraid to start small and work up to it. 

Every step you take burns calories. The more you walk, the more calories you burn. Over time, this calorie deficit can lead to weight loss.

Walking is something you can do daily, even when the more intense workouts feel like a chore. Walking can be a form of incidental exercise you can easily integrate into your regular routine, for example you could start walking part of the way to work rather than simply driving the whole way or you could take the dog for a quick stroll around the block after dinner. To find out more about incidental exercise, check out this blog.

Regular walking can help improve your metabolism, making it easier to manage your weight.

Exercise in general, including walking, can help reduce stress. As stress can contribute to weight gain (ever heard of stress-eating?) a reduction in it can also encourage weight loss. 

Remember to start small — even if you’re just starting out, you can walk a short distance and build up a little each day!

To stay motivated or make your walking experience more enjoyable, you could join a walking group, or if you’re looking to eventually build up to something more intense, you could try the ultra-accessible Parkrun.

In addition to walking, here are some low-impact exercises perfect for those who are looking for easier options.

• Swimming
  • The buoyancy of water reduces the impact on joints. Swimming is also great for muscle development. If you’re not super confident, feel free to start in your local pool’s slow lane.
• Cycling
  • Riding a stationary bike or a traditional bicycle is easy on the joints and provides an effective cardiovascular workout.
• Chair Exercises
  • These exercises can be done sitting in a chair or using it for balance and support, making them suitable for all fitness levels. Find some examples of chair exercises here.
• Body Weight Exercises
  • Simple bodyweight movements like squats, leg lifts, and modified push-ups can be tailored to your fitness level.
     

Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. They can provide guidance on what's safe and appropriate for your individual situation.

You don't need to engage in strenuous, high-impact activities to lose weight. Walking and other low-impact exercises are not only kind to your body but also effective in supporting your weight loss journey. Making these activities a regular part of your daily routine can lead to a healthier, happier you.