Introduction
In their quest for improved fitness and weight loss, people often seek out elaborate workout routines, complicated diets, and expensive gym memberships. However, when it comes to fitness, the simplest solutions are usually the most effective. Walking, a seemingly unassuming activity, is perhaps the best form of exercise for beginners looking to shed pounds. Given that 25% of British adults are now deemed to be clinically ‘inactive’, walking may just be the remedy some of us need. In this blog post, we’ll explore why that’s the case.
1. Accessibility
One of the most significant advantages of walking as a beginner's exercise for weight loss is its accessibility. You don't need a dedicated space, any fancy equipment, or specific technique/skill to get stuck in. Whether you're in a city, a quiet suburban neighbourhood, or the arse-end of nowhere, you can walk anywhere, anytime. This makes it a particularly ideal option for individuals who might feel intimidated or self-conscious about entering a gym.
2. Affordability
Walking is one of the most budget-friendly exercises you can engage in, because it costs feck all. This saves you money that might otherwise be spent on unnecessary gym paraphernalia, such as overpriced joint balm or radioactive pre-workout.
The only investments required for walking are a comfortable pair of shoes and your time. Although theoretically, you could walk barefoot because we have evolved to do this, but it might get you some unusual looks on the high street. Additionally, you can make walking even more cost-effective by incorporating it into your daily routine. Commute to work on foot, escape the office during your lunch break for a stroll, or walk to the shops.
3. Repeatability
One of the keys to successful weight loss is consistency and adherence. Unlike more intense forms of exercise, which can lead to burnout or overtraining, walking is a movement that you can easily repeat day after day without feeling overwhelmed. This makes it a sustainable option for beginners. The ability to tailor your walking routine to your current fitness level ensures that you're never in over your head, and you can maintain a consistent exercise habit over time.
To incorporate an element of accountability to your walking regime, consider inviting friends or family to join you. I’m a massive advocate of positive peer pressure, and humans are social creatures, so utilise the people around you to keep you in check.
How Much Walking?
It turns out that the coveted holy grail of 10,000 steps per day, which is so often peddled by healthcare professionals, is actually a pretty arbitrary number. The health benefits of walking — which are profound —level off before 10,000 steps, for adults of all ages. The latest research shows that only 7000-8000 steps per day reduces all-cause mortality by around 50-60%. However, that’s not to suggest you shouldn’t walk more if you’re so inclined.
Summary
In my opinion, walking is the ultimate exercise for beginners looking to lose weight and increase activity levels, due to its accessibility, affordability, and repeatability. It's a gentle, low-impact exercise that anyone can start immediately, regardless of their fitness level or budget. The simplicity and convenience of walking make it a practical choice for a long-term exercise routine.