Walking and Health

Walking is a physical activity that can provide numerous health benefits and is appropriate for most individuals of all ages and varying physical conditions.

As an endurance activity, walking moves many of the body's large muscle groups and can be easily performed at intensities adequate to increase muscular and cardiovascular fitness. In fact, the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends walking as an excellent way to achieve the recommendation that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. Walking is a low-impact, low-risk physical exercise. For example, injury rates for moderate-intensity walking exercise are approximately one-third or less of injury rates for running. Walking is also familiar, convenient, flexible (free form), low cost, and adaptable to every fitness level. The only ...