Walking: a heart-healthy activity
- Published on
- By New Equilibre
Walking is one of the simplest physical activities available to everyone. It requires no special equipment, can be done almost anywhere and at any time, and offers numerous health benefits. Among its many benefits, walking is particularly good for the heart. In this article, we'll explore how walking can improve heart health and why you should make it part of your daily routine.
The cardiovascular benefits of walking
Improved blood circulation
Walking stimulates blood circulation, helping to keep arteries and veins healthy. By walking regularly, the heart becomes more efficient at pumping blood, reducing blood pressure and lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Lower bad cholesterol
Studies have shown that regular walking can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. A healthy balance between these two types of cholesterol is essential to prevent the build-up of plaque in the arteries, a condition that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Lower blood pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Walking, as a moderate form of exercise, can help lower blood pressure by improving endothelial function (the ability of blood vessels to dilate and contract). Regular walking helps maintain blood pressure levels within a healthy range.
Weight control
Excess weight and obesity increase the risk of heart disease. Walking is an effective activity for burning calories and helping to maintain a healthy weight. By making walking part of your daily routine, you can manage your weight more easily and reduce the stress on your heart.
Stress reduction
Chronic stress has negative effects on the heart, increasing blood pressure and the risk of heart attacks. Walking, especially in natural environments, is an excellent way to reduce stress and anxiety. It releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that promote relaxation and stress reduction.
Why is walking ideal for everyone?
Ease of use and accessibility
Walking doesn't require expensive equipment or a gym membership. It can be done anywhere: in a park, in town, on the beach or even on a treadmill at home. This accessibility makes walking an ideal activity for all ages and fitness levels.
Low impact
Unlike activities such as running or jumping, walking is a low-impact activity. It exerts less pressure on the joints, making it particularly suitable for the elderly, overweight people or those recovering from injury.
Flexibility
Walking can easily be integrated into everyday life. Whether it's walking to work, walking the dog or taking an after-dinner stroll, there are plenty of opportunities to walk more. What's more, it can be adapted to suit fitness levels and personal goals, whether for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk for a more intense workout.
Tips for maximizing the heart-healthy benefits of walking
Walking regularly
To maximize cardiovascular benefits, we recommend walking at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. This can be broken down into shorter sessions if necessary, such as three walks of 10 minutes each.
Increase intensity gradually
Start at a comfortable pace and gradually increase the intensity of your walks. A brisk walk where you can talk but not sing is ideal for improving heart health.
Using New Equilibre insoles
For those looking to maximize comfort and support during their walks, the orthopedic insolesNew Equilibre are an excellent option. They offer optimum support for your medial, lateral and anterior plantar arches, helping to correct imbalances, reduce muscle and tendon pain, and improve your posture. With quality insoles, you can walk longer and more comfortably, contributing to better heart health.
The comfort soles are suitable for everyday use, for walking in the city, and hiking insoles are specifically designed for long mountain walks and tricky trails.
Choose a variety of itineraries
To avoid boredom and stimulate different muscles, vary your walking routes. Explore new neighborhoods, parks or nature trails. A variety of landscapes can make walking more enjoyable and motivating.
Walking with friends or in a group
Walking in a group or with friends can make the activity more social and enjoyable. It also provides extra motivation to stay regular and reach your walking goals.
Walking is a simple but incredibly beneficial activity for the heart. By improving blood circulation, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, helping with weight control and reducing stress, walking makes a significant contribution to cardiovascular health. Accessible to all, easy to integrate into daily life and requiring no special equipment, walking is a habit that everyone can adopt to improve their overall health and well-being. With the addition of New Equilibre orthopedic insoles, you can optimize your comfort and performance, making every step good for your heart. So get your walking shoes on and start enjoying the benefits of this simple but powerful activity.
New Equilibre
Healthcare professionals specializing in the manufacture of orthopedic insoles for over 30 years. Clinically proven expertise with thousands of New Equilibre users and patients in orthopedic practices.
No spam, only notifications about new products and promotional offers.