Get your walking boots on
Yoga offers something for everyone, but sometimes a good walk outside is all you need to boost fitness and mood. Whatever you do, be sure you enjoy it
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The health benefits of simply moving your body – whether that's through yoga, walking or sky diving – are simply huge. An average of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity walking per week, for example, can lead to significant benefits, including improved cardio health, enhanced mood and increased longevity.
A study released by ExerciseWithStyle.com revealed the minimum amount of exercise needed for a healthy lifestyle, with a specific focus on walking – though stretching and flexibility were equally important:
Stretching and flexibility: Flexibility is often overlooked in fitness routine, but it's crucial for maintaining your range of motion and preventing injuries, says expert fitness writer Jesse Hyson. "Stretching shouldn't be confined to your workouts; consider incorporating a daily stretching routine or practices like yoga or pilates to keep your muscles flexible and healthy."
Walking: a low-impact, accessible form of exercise that's great for health. Aim for 150 minutes a week, broken down into 30 minutes a day for five days. Walking can be done anywhere, from city streets to country trails, and doesn't require any special equipment. "The best part is that it's accessible to almost everyone, regardless of fitness level or age," says Hyson. "Just remember: consistency is key!"
Tips to make exercise more fun & engaging
Explore different scenery: Changing your walking route keeps things interesting and can make your walks more enjoyable. Try exploring different parks, neighbourhoods, or trails in your area.
Walking groups: Walking with others can make the activity more fun and provide a source of social support. Look for local walking groups in your community, or start your own with friends or family.
Music and audiobooks: For some, listening to music, audiobooks, or podcasts can make walks more enjoyable and provide a mental distraction if you find the activity boring.
Interval walking: Interval walking involves changing your walking speed at regular intervals. For example, you might walk at a moderate pace for five minutes, then speed up to a brisk pace for one minute and repeat. This can make your walks more challenging and interesting.
Fitness tracker: Using a fitness tracker can help you stay motivated by letting you monitor your progress. Set daily or weekly goals for steps or distance, and celebrate when you achieve them.
Om Magazine
First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.
