It is the rare individual who is not interested in staying youthful. No one likes feeling as though he or she is getting older. And, there is nothing that tells us we are aging as bluntly as our bodies do. Waking up in the morning with a stiff neck and retiring at the end of the day with an aching back are painful reminders that we aren’t as young as we once were.
While it’s inevitable that we will age, it is a choice whether or not we will do so gracefully. Walking can help many of us maintain our mobility and feel young, even in older age.
Walking Keeps You Mobile and Youthful
You may understand that walking is an effective means of weight control and that it is good for general health. But, do you know that walking also has powerful anti-aging effects on the body and mind? For example, walking improves memory. Also, according to Katherine Hobson, author of Walking Fends Off Loss of Mobility, and It’s Not Too Late to Start, walking reverses muscle loss in older adults. She wrote, “(Walking lowers) the risk of becoming disabled in the first place; (a study) showed that it sped recovery from an episode of disability and lowered the risk of subsequent episodes.” Read more about this study here.
How Much Walking Is Enough?
When it comes to walking, how much is enough? How long should each walking session last? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend 150 minutes of brisk walking per week. This could be broken down into three 50-minute walks, five 30-minute walks, or even ten 15-minute walks. These recommendations are intended for individuals who are 65 or older, are basically physically fit, and do not have health problems that would inhibit walking.
It’s Not Too Late to Begin Walking Regularly
It’s not uncommon for someone to choose not to be physically active because of his or her age. Are you concerned that you are “too old” to start a walking program? Maybe you are 60 or 70 or 80. No matter your age, unless you are physically unable to do so, it would probably benefit you to take regular walks. However, it is highly recommended that you see a healthcare professional before you begin any exercise regime. Better yet, consult with a physiotherapist. This type of healthcare provider can expertly assess your current physical state and determine your readiness to engage in exercise. He or she can also design a walking/exercise program especially for you, and help you implement it and build long-term healthy habits. Contact a physiotherapist to find out more about beginning a walking/strengthening program.
Do you live near Winnipeg? If so, contact Elite Sports Injury Physiotherapy Clinic to schedule an appointment and learn more about growing young with the aid of physiotherapy.