Watching the decline of my parents as they moved into their late 80s emphasized to me the importance of maintaining mobility as we age. Once an older person is confined to a walker or lightweight transport chair, they begin to deteriorate rapidly. I’ve always found it sad to see young people, scooting around Walmart on electric carts.
Some have legitimate reasons like a disability but others are morbidly obese. An uncomplicated and simple routine of walking daily for 30 minutes is not only a good way to maintain a healthy weight but will set you on a course for a healthier and happier life.
The more you move, the longer you can move
When a person is admitted to a rehab facility after an illness or surgery, one of the first things a physical therapist will do is try to get the patient to stand up and walk even if it’s just a couple of steps. The therapist then has the patient increase the number of steps until he or she is able to walk easily on their own or with the assistance of a cane.
Ease into it gradually
If you’ve been sedentary for a while, or still recovering from an injury, start slow. There’s no need to run a 5K right out of the gate. Walk for a few minutes every day and gradually increase the time to 30 minutes or more. Walking daily for at least 30 minutes will do wonders for your overall physical and mental health. My morning walk is the best way for me to relax especially if I’m under stress.
Take a two-mile walk every morning before breakfast.
~Harry S Truman
I didn’t realize it but I’ve been following Harry’s advice. I walk between 2 1/2 and 3 1/2 miles each morning before eating.
Keep walking and moving your body for these 8 reasons:
- Walking is easy on your bones – You can power walk, run or jump, but if you’re over 50, an easy daily walk will give you multiple benefits. There’s no need to over-exert yourself or cause an injury. It always helps to wear comfortable and supportive shoes to avoid putting a strain on your joints and bones. Have your feet checked out by a podiatrist to determine if you need orthotics, or if you have any other problems that will inhibit your ability to walk. Corns, bunions, ingrown toenails, etc can make walking uncomfortable but are simple to treat.
- It increases circulation – Being up on your feet and moving around allows your blood to flow freely and will decrease any pain you have caused by bad circulation. This is especially true for those who have peripheral artery disease or atherosclerosis.
- Your heart will stay pumping – The heart is a muscle that becomes stronger and healthier with regular exercise. When you commit to walking daily your heart will become more efficient, and it will bring more oxygen and nutrients to your organs.
- It regulates your blood sugar – Taking an evening walk after dinner (usually the largest meal of the day) has been shown to reduce blood sugar. You can also try taking a short walk after each meal. I can assure you that your pancreas will thank you for it. The pancreas manufactures digestive enzymes and hormones that turn your food into energy. It also regulates how your body uses blood sugar when you walk.
- Your back pain will feel better – In a 2016 study, it was determined that participating in strength training and walking exercises was beneficial to improve lumbar function in patients with chronic back pain.
- It helps reduce your stress and anxiety – Walking is meditative. If you feel nervous, go for a walk and enjoy the scenery. Take your dog along with you (if you have one) Pets need exercise too. You can also try forest bathing as a meditative practice by taking a serene walk in the woods.
- It will help you maintain a healthy weight – Although walking won’t make a dramatic change in your weight, it will burn calories and help you to maintain your current weight. Calorie reduction is what helps you lose weight, but walking will make you feel better and healthier overall.
- Keeps you alive – The more you move, the longer you will be able to. So keep on moving!
If you are over 50, make sure to take a 30-minute daily walk or keep moving throughout the day for optimal health.
This post was originally published on 1/14 and was updated on 9/2021
Are you walking daily? Please leave a comment.
Rebecca, your tips are bang on target and fit my new year resolutions. I have started the 5:2 diet and cut back on wine. Walking at least 45 mins a day and swimming 4 days a week. I have also gone back to meditation which feels so therapeutic – I learnt TM in the 1970’s and it has served me well. I like your site and I will return regularly.
Thanks Judy. I’m glad you found my tips helpful. I too have cut back on wine and am walking everyday. That’s great that you’re swimming too and doing TM meditation. You’re well on the way to meeting your goals! TM Meditation is powerful. It’s wonderful that you were able to learn the technique. The guy I live with also learned TM and loves it. I wish it were more available these days. Keep up the good work and am glad to be connected with you.
Move it or Lose it! Moving every day is as essential for a long happy life.
That’s the truth, Rosemary. It’s so important and really keeps you going better longer.
We walk every day. Every single day. I love it!
It makes a huge difference. If I don’t do it I feel it Carol.
Wonderful advice… now and always.
Thanks, Laurie.