Walking Workouts: 10 Myths and Facts

There are many reasons why walking exercises are so popular. Walking is good for your health and fitness in the same way that other low-intensity steady-state (LISS) cardio exercises are.

They are also accessible and convenient. You can stroll without a fancy gym or a lot of equipment. You may tailor a walking workout to your individual skill level. They're also beneficial for people of all ages and fitness levels.

But are walking's virtues exaggerated? Here, we bust some myths about walking as exercise and show proof that it is good for you.

Myth #1: Walking isn't a good form of exercise

Fact: Walking is an excellent form of exercise that can provide numerous health benefits. It is a low-impact activity that is easy on the joints, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Walking regularly can help improve your heart health, strengthen your bones, and lower your risk of long-term health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Myth #2: You need to walk for hours to see results

Fact: It is not necessary to walk for hours to see the benefits of walking. In fact, even a few minutes of walking per day can have a positive impact on your health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week for adults. This can be broken down into shorter increments, such as 30 minutes of walking five days per week.

Myth #3: Walking on a treadmill is better than walking outdoors

Fact: Both indoor and outdoor walking have their own benefits. Walking on a treadmill can be a convenient way to get in your daily steps, especially if the weather is not conducive to outdoor activity. But walking outside has the added benefit of letting you see the sun and breathe fresh air, which can make you feel better and give you more energy. Additionally, outdoor walking can provide a more varied terrain and scenery, which can make it more enjoyable and help prevent boredom.

Myth #4: You need special shoes or equipment to walk

Fact: While certain shoes or equipment may enhance your walking experience, they are not necessary to get the benefits of walking. Most people can get by with a good pair of shoes that gives them enough support and comfort. If you are planning to walk on a variety of terrain or for longer distances, you may want to invest in a pair of walking or hiking shoes. However, it is important to choose shoes that fit well and feel comfortable to wear.

Myth #5: Walking is only good for losing weight

Fact: While walking can be an effective way to burn calories and lose weight, it also provides other health benefits beyond weight loss. Walking regularly can improve your heart health, strengthen your bones, and lower your risk of long-term health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It can also improve mental health and mood, and it is an excellent way to relax and relieve stress.

Myth #6: You need to walk at a certain speed to get a good workout

Fact: The intensity of your walk can have an impact on the benefits you receive, but it is not necessary to walk at a certain speed to get a good workout. Your pace, the terrain, and the incline are all things that can change how hard your walk is. Walking at a moderate intensity, which is when you can still talk but not sing, can be good for your health in many ways.

Myth #7: You need to walk for a certain distance to get a good workout

Fact: Similar to walking speed, the distance you walk is not the only factor that determines the effectiveness of your walk as a workout. The benefits you get from walking depend not only on how long you walk, but also on how hard you walk. For example, a shorter walk at a higher intensity may be more beneficial than a longer walk at a lower intensity.

Myth #8: You need to walk on a flat surface to get a good workout

Fact: Walking on a flat surface is certainly a good way to get a workout, but it is not the only option. Walking on uneven ground and uphill can give you more things to think about and help you improve your balance and coordination.

Myth #9: You can't get a good workout from walking if you have a physical limitation

Even if you have physical limitations that make it hard for you to walk fast, walking can still be a good way to exercise for people with physical limitations. Talking to a doctor or physical therapist can help you come up with an exercise plan that works for you and takes into account any physical limitations. In some cases, modifications or assistive devices such as a cane or walker may be necessary to help with balance and stability.

Myth #10: Walking is only good for older adults

Fact: While walking can be especially beneficial for older adults due to its low-impact nature, it is a form of exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Walking regularly can help improve your heart health, strengthen your bones, and lower your risk of long-term health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Physical activity is important for people of all ages to do every day to keep their health and well-being in good shape.