Exercise is an important part of weight loss, but is walking enough to see results?
We look at the health benefits of walking including how it can help you lose weight.
Can you lose weight by walking?
Walking is great exercise that almost anyone can do.
But it will take more than a few extra steps here and there to help you see results.
Making diet changes coupled with walking more can help you lose weight.
Walking is a great way to fill in one half of that weight-loss equation."
Learn more about how much walking you should do and how to get started.
“Even an extra 10 minutes of brisk walking here and there can add up.”
But if you want to lose weight, you’ll have to do more.
The American Heart Association advises reaching 50-70% of your maximum heart rate when engaging in moderate intensity exercise.
Click here tofind your range.
And remember, listen to your body!
Health Benefits of Walking
Body weight is made up of fat and muscle.
Walking is beneficial because it can nix fat while preserving muscle.
There are practical benefits, too.
After a while, walking won’t be enough for big weight-loss benefits.
Strength training is good for your bones, too.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can also help.
“Add short bursts of more intense activity between easier recovery periods,” Koch says.
“you’re able to also up the intensity of a walk by adding weight.
Carry a backpack filled with water bottles (bonus, no excuse for getting dehydrated!
), put small children in a carrier instead of pushing a stroller, or wear a weighted vest.
Even simply tightening your core and swinging your arms can add an extra challenge.”
Start with 10 minutes at a time and increase as you’re able.
Work up to 60 minutes per day if your goal is to lose weight or maintain weight loss.
If it’s possible for you to’t fit in an hour a day, don’t sweat it.
Any amount of walking offers health benefits.
Try a higher-intensity workout if you’re short on time.
