Walking is an effective and convenient way to lose weight. It’s low-impact, easy to do, and most of us already have some level of familiarity with it. But how exactly does walking help you to lose weight?
The most obvious way walking helps with weight loss is through calorie burning. Walking is a form of aerobic exercise, which means it uses your body’s large muscle groups to increase your heart and respiration rate, thus burning calories. The amount of calories you burn depends on the duration and intensity of your walk. Generally speaking, a person walking at a brisk pace can burn anywhere from 200 to 400 calories in an hour, which can add up over time.
In addition to burning calories, walking can also help you to lose weight passively. When you walk, your body uses energy to propel you forward, which means your metabolism increases and you burn additional calories even after your walk is over. This phenomenon is known as “afterburn” or “excess post-exercise oxygen consumption” (EPOC).
Walking can also help to reduce cravings and improve appetite control. A study conducted at the University of Exeter Medical School found that walking can reduce cravings for unhealthy foods by up to 60 percent. The study also found that walking can reduce hunger hormone levels, potentially leading to improved appetite control.
Finally, walking can help you to lose weight by boosting your mood. Exercise has long been understood to be a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving mental health. Studies have found that regular exercise, including walking, can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as help to improve overall mood.
Overall, walking is a great way to lose weight. It can be done anywhere, it’s low-impact, and it can help you to lose weight passively, by increasing your metabolism and reducing cravings. So if you’re looking to lose a few pounds, grab your shoes and get walking!
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