Celebrate National Walking Day on April 3 this year. Taking place every year on the first Wednesday in April, this is the perfect opportunity to embrace the benefits of walking for a healthier lifestyle. Ready to get stepping? Walking is one of the easiest ways to contribute to your healthy lifestyle. It’s easier on the knees than running alone and it can be done in various locations. Did you know, walking is just as good for your mind as it is for your body? Studies show that consistent walks can be the key to unlocking a treasure chest of benefits: weight loss, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, sharper memory, and reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more Source: Harvard Health Publishing* I discovered the power of walking after a health setback that sidelined me from running. Walking became my path back to strength, and guess what? It also left me feeling more relaxed and happier after each session.

As I’ve grown older and embraced healthy living, I’ve become a walking advocate for my loved ones. But here’s a concerning trend: research shows walking rates are dropping in the US, which can hurt our physical and mental well-being Source: American Heart Association** Don’t let a lack of green space or a car-dependent environment stop you. We can overcome these obstacles! Indoor walking is a fantastic option. Dust off those fitness apps, charge your trackers, and get ready to step up your health game – because we’re getting those steps in, no matter what!

Below I’ve listed a few ways to beat the odds and still get your steps in for the day. 

A Walk In The Mall 

Head to your local shopping mall and turn it into your walking track. Most malls are climate-controlled and offer a safe path with plenty of people-watching opportunities.

Stair Stepping

 If you have stairs in your house, challenge yourself to climb them for a set amount of time or a specific number of repetitions. Uneasy on your feet? Hold onto the railing and be safe!

Fitness Video Streaming

There are tons of free fitness videos to stream that are specifically designed for indoor walking workouts. You can find routines that target different fitness levels from beginner walks to high-intensity interval training incorporating walking bursts.

Walking with Entertainment

Put on some music, a podcast, or an audiobook, and hop onto the treadmill! The entertainment will help the time fly by.

Below are links to super helpful resources that can teach more about the health and social benefits of walking regularly. 

References:
https://www.health.harvard.edu *
https://www.heart.org **
https://nationaltoday.com ***
https://www.snexplores.org