Benefits of Walking to Work

Benefits of Walking to Work

The Department for Transport revealed that walking trips have decreased 19% between 2005 and 2015. They also disclosed that only two fifths of adults walk for travel at least once a week. Walking is a simple way to become more active and healthier. If the distance between your home and workplace isn’t too far. Then why not walk to work. Here are the benefits of walking to work:

Provides daily exercise

The NHS recommend that adults aged 19-64 should try to do at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity. For example, cycling or brisk walking every week. Walking briskly can help to build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier. If you aren’t an overly active person walking is a great way to get started.

Improves your wellbeing

A study from the University of East Anglia and Centre for Diet and Activity Research (CEDAR) found that walking or cycling to work is better for people’s mental health than driving. It highlighted that active commuters are better able to concentrate and are under less stress than if they were to have traveled by car.

Opens your eyes

Walking will give you the opportunity to notice your surroundings more and admire the beauty around you. We can get caught up in everyday life and forget to stop to notice the little things, walking to and from work can make you appreciate everything that little bit more.

Decreases risk of chronic conditions

The benefits of walking to work include lowering the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. It can also help with joint pain and The American Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends walking to improve arthritis pain, fatigue, function and quality of life.

Maintains a healthy weight

Walking can help you to stay in shape as it increases the metabolism by burning extra calories and preventing muscle loss. You may feel worn out the first couple of times you walk to/from work, but that will soon fade and you won’t even notice it.