Walking is a great way to stay fit and energetic. It holds several health benefits, ranging from boosting your immunity and improving cardiovascular fitness to keeping chronic illnesses, such as cancer, at bay.
While many experts urge people to walk at least 10,000 steps daily, minimal walking also has the potential to cut down on the risk of dying from any cause, according to a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. In addition, researchers found that walking even 2337 steps a day reduced the risk of dying from Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).
But given the hectic work schedule and busy lifestyle in today’s time, it is extremely difficult for people to fulfil their daily step count, at least not by going for a walk alone. So, what do you do? We at OnlyMyHealth bring you some clever and creative ways to do just that.
Also Read: How Many Steps a Day for a Healthier Life? New Magic Number Revealed
Dance Away
Dancing is all about moving and grooving. It involves pacing from one place to another, which helps boost the step count. Just like walking, moderate-intensity dancing can also help reduce the risk of CVD deaths, as per a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
Moreover, dancing is said to improve brain functions, such as memory, so much so that it was associated with a 76% reduced risk of dementia, as per a study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity.
Walk To Shop
Shopping may be a guilty pleasure, but if you're indulging in it, why not aim to increase your step count simultaneously? If the mall or grocery store is just a few blocks away, choose to walk rather than drive. Moreover, carrying all your shopping bags back to your home can provide strength-training benefits.
Also Read: 6 Easy Exercises For Heart Health That You Can Do At Home
Take The Stairs
A recent study published in the Journal of Atherosclerosis looked at data from nearly 4.59 lakh adults over a course of 12.5 years. The researchers found that participants who climbed more than five flights of stairs daily, which equals about 50 steps, had a 20% reduced risk of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) than non-climbers.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), ASCVD refers to a group of conditions, such as Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) like myocardial infarction, angina, and cerebrovascular disease like a transient ischemic attack, ischemic stroke, and carotid artery stenosis, associated with plaque buildup in arterial walls.
Household Chores
Rather than lying idle at home, get active by doing some cleaning. Activities such as sweeping and mopping the floor, mowing the lawn, gardening, and vacuuming around the house can be a great way to improve your cardiovascular fitness. In fact, staying physically active can help boost brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities, according to the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Taking The Longer Route
While cars and two-wheelers have become common in every household, if you have the time to spare, choose to walk and take the longer route. This is one of the best ways to increase your steps.
Conclusion
Besides the above-mentioned examples, you can always think of innovative ways to increase your step count. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week for adults. This can be achieved by simply walking, moving around, doing household chores, planning weekend treks with family, and parking your car farther away so you get to move more. If you’re really looking forward to reaping the benefits of walking, then start immediately and remain consistent.