Walking is a great way to get a total body workout. Most people will assume that walking is not as effective as jogging or running, but it actually can benefit a person more. It is considered a low impact exercise that builds muscle mass and increases circulation. Almost anyone can walk for at least 20 to 30 minutes a day. Jogging and running can be difficult for people that have knee and joint problems, so most doctors will recommend walking instead.

Walking has also been known to reduce stress. Any form of exercise has stress reducing benefits. A person can split the walking in time increments. Try taking your dog for a quick 10 minute walk before work. Then at lunch you could try walking again for 10 minutes. After dinner take a 10 minute walk with the family. It doesn’t have to be structured in a 30 minute block of time to get the same health benefits.

Another way to stay motivated is finding a walking partner. Ask a neighbor, friend, co-worker, or family member to walk with you. This will help you from getting board and help keep you accountable. Walking is a lot more fun and enjoyable when you do it with someone else. If you can’t find a walking partner consider listening to music to help pass the time. It has also been shown that people that walk at least 5 days a week consume less calories and have a lower body weight. Reducing stress, increasing muscle mass, and lowering your body weight are just three good reasons to start walking.