This past weekend, I had the privilege of walking with fellow locals and community members at the first ever Calgary local chapter for the Walk With A Doc program!
Every walk starts with a health talk, and this month’s topic was the health benefits of walking. There are 100+ benefits and I can’t fit them all into a blog post, but here is an easy way to remember a few key ones:
Head To Toe – How Walking Is Incredible For Our Health
Brain
- reduces risk of stroke
- better blood flow and circulation
- improves memory and reduces risk of dementia
Mind/Mental Health
- boosts mood
- releases endorphins
- reduces anxiety and depression
Heart
- lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and raises good cholesterol (HDL)
- manages blood pressure
- lowers resting heart rate – which makes us healthier and your heart more efficient!
Lungs
- breathe easier and healthier
- optimizes lung function
- strengthens diaphragm and breathing muscles
Gut
- maintains weight
- improves metabolism and regulates appetite
- manages constipation
Arms & Legs
- strengthens muscles
- reduces joint pain and loosens up stiffness
- improves bone density
Walking is safe, free, and welcoming to one and all. I hope to see you at our next walk on May 18th, 2025 in Calgary!
Let’s get healthier one step at a time and let’s practice lifestyle medicine together!