We all know that exercise is good for us, but sometimes it can be hard to find the motivation to get started. If you're trying to decide whether to go for a walk or a run, this article will help you make the decision based on the benefits of each.
Walking or running - both have benefits
There are many benefits to both walking and running, so it really depends on what you want to get out of your workout. For example, if you're looking to improve your cardiovascular health, then running is a great option. But if you're looking to improve your joint health, then walking may be a better choice.
Some other benefits of walking include:
-Lower risk of heart disease
-Lower blood pressure
-Lower cholesterol levels
-Reduced stress levels
-Improved mental well-being
Some other benefits of running include:
-Improved cardiovascular fitness
-Improved bone density
-Increased muscle strength and endurance
If you are a beginner - start with walking
If you are just starting out on your fitness journey, then walking is a great way to get started. It is low impact and easy on your joints, and you can gradually increase the intensity as you build up your fitness levels. Running is a great workout, but it can be tough on your body if you're not used to it, so it's best to ease into it gradually.
Walking is a great way to get you started. But you should remember that to see real results you will have to be consistent. If you set a goal for yourself, you will have to show up and achieve it everyday. Motivation can be sometimes hard to find, but it is definitely worth it in the long run. We recently posted and article on how to choose your step goal, check it out here.
If you are looking for extra motivation to walk, we invite you to try Fitale! Fitale is a fitness based mobile game, in which your steps can be exchanged for progress in the app. You can also pledge your own daily step goals and get rewarded for reaching them. Fitale is free and you can check it out here, on the AppStore.
How to challenge yourself on your walks?
If you're looking to challenge yourself a bit more on your walks, there are a few things you can do.
One thing you can do is to increase the incline on your treadmill or walk up hills when you're outdoors. This will help to tone your legs and glutes more effectively. Additionally, you can try walking with weights in your hands or wearing a weight vest. This will help to increase the intensity of your walk and really work your muscles.
Finally, try varying your speed during your walk. You can do intervals of fast walking followed by slower periods of strolling. This will help to get your heart rate up and burn more calories. So next time you hit the treadmill or head out for a walk, challenge yourself and see how much better you feel afterwards!
