To launch Breast Cancer Care's annual Pink Ribbonwalks, Amanda Hamilton Nutritionist and best-selling health author has pulled together a list of the Top 5 reasons why walking is the best form of exercise, and is encouraging supporters to lace up their boots and walk together to help support people with breast cancer.
Pink Ribbon Walk
5 REASONS TO WALK
Major health benefits
The Chief Medical Officer's recommendations state that physical activity should be of 'moderate' intensity to benefit health, which includes brisk walking. Not only does walking assist with weight loss, but walking can strengthen your heart, enhance self-esteem, increase confidence and can be as effective as some antidepressants!
Muscle toning
Walking can help tone and strengthen the muscles in your legs, giving definition to quads, hamstrings, calves and toning your glutes. Making sure you lengthen your spine and pull in your tummy while you walk will also help to tone your abs and waist with every step. A full body work out can be just as easy as that!
It's free
One of the largest barriers to exercise is the cost, with the average gym membership costing over £400 per year. Walking is completely free and can be enjoyed any time, any place with no commitment. In fact, it could even save you money! Instead of sitting in the morning traffic jam or spending a fortune commuting on a packed train, switch to walking to work. You could save yourself hundreds of pounds a month and get your daily dose of exercise.
It's Sociable
Ever tried running on a treadmill or working out on a cross trainer and holding a conversation at the same time? It's not easy! Walking is a great alternative to the gym. You can use the time to explore your local area and catch up with friends. Substitute the after-work bottle of wine with a walk with your friends instead. You'll feel much better afterwards, and fresh headed the next morning! Whether you prefer to explore the British country side, take a tour of the local landmarks, or simply stroll around your nearest park, all can be a great way to spend some quality time with your mates.
Just as good as jogging
If you think your body is going to benefit more from going for a run than from power walking, then think again! The calories burned from walking at a brisk pace for an hour are equal to the calories burned from jogging for the same amount of time.
With beautiful walks to choose from in Oxfordshire, Perthshire, Derbyshire, Kent, Wiltshire and London, walkers can take in the breath-taking scenery around some of the UK's most stunning country or get to know our capital city. To find out more and register for the Pink Ribbonwalks please go to: www.breastcancercare.org.uk/walk.
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