Walking as a Form of Transportation
Tellïo has followed a cardio routine for some time to stay active. Aiming to run 5 to 7 miles per week. He's not a running fan. His opinion is that it's both annoying and necessary at the same time. He does it because of the health benefits it provides. Lately, he's preferred walking. Outside of using a vehicle or his Dahon bicycle as a transportation method, the man walks everywhere within walking distance of his home. Especially this year, channeling his inner Forest Gump. Talk about developing some gorgeous looking calves. His calves look like steel cable cords - Extra defined! Other reasons for the pivot include:
Less strain and stress on the knees
Longer endurance
Builds stamina
A form of mediation
Improved bowel movements
Not strenuous
Getting to know the locals
From a health perspective, walking is beneficial in the following ways, but not limited to:
Cardiovascular health: Lowers blood pressure, strengthens the heart, and improves circulation.
Weight management: Burns calories, supports metabolism, and helps you stay slim.
Stronger muscles & bones: Increases joint mobility, strengthens muscles (especially legs, hips, and core), and supports bone density, reducing osteoporosis.
Reduces stress & anxiety: Walking lowers cortisol levels and helps release endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones.
Improves mood: Even a short walk can lift your spirits.
Enhances creativity & focus: Walking improves cognitive function and problem-solving skills.
Supports brain health: Walking helps with memory, cognitive decline, and dementia risk.
Better sleep: Regulates circadian rhythms for deeper, more restorative sleep.
Supports digestion: Walking after meals helps digestion and regulates blood sugar.
Longevity: Research shows regular walking lowers the risk of chronic diseases (heart disease, diabetes, stroke, some cancers).
Accessibility: It’s low-impact, adaptable to any fitness level, and free.
Tellïo has truly invested in this endeavor by purchasing a pair of walking sneakers. This has helped him take his walking game to the next level, thanks to the more comfortable, functional and stylish shoes. Prior to pivoting to Hoka shoes, the man's ankles had pleaded in pain for a solution. Highly recommend investing in supportive footwear when embarking on a long journey or trek. That is all for now. Go get active. As always, Stay Strong & Stay Vivid!
Reference
Ungvari Z, Fazekas-Pongor V, Csiszar A, Kunutsor SK. The multifaceted benefits of walking for healthy aging: from Blue Zones to molecular mechanisms. Geroscience. 2023 Dec;45(6):3211-3239. doi: 10.1007/s11357-023-00873-8. Epub 2023 Jul 26. PMID: 37495893; PMCID: PMC10643563.
Xu Z, Zheng X, Ding H, Zhang D, Cheung PMH, Yang Z, Tam KW, Zhou W, Chan DCC, Wang W, Wong SYS
The Effect of Walking on Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024;10:e48355
doi: 10.2196/48355PMID: 39045858PMCID: 11287235.