10 Reasons to walk

Walking at 3 - 4 miles an hour burn around 125 calories per mile

Walking is something that can be done by almost everyone and in the main doesn't require any expensive equipment. As long as you have a pair of comfortable shoes, sensible clothing and a bottle of water you're ready to go.

1. Walking improves fitness - walking is one of the best ways to start to improve your fitness, walking for just 30 minutes 3 times a week can help increase your fitness levels
2. Weight loss - walking at 3 - 4 miles an hour the average person will burn around 125 calories per mile; by walking 3 times a week for just 30 minutes you'll burn around 700 - 750 calories, that's the equivalent of four packets for crisps or 3 chocolate bars.
3. Helps to prevent type 2diabetes - Increasing the amount of walking you do to around half an hour 5 times a week (although being generally more active can help) has shown to improve insulin sensitivity and prevent diabetes.
4. Reduces Stress - Exercise in general has shown to help reduce stress and walking is no exception. It helps to not only take your mind off stressful life situations but also reduce the effect of stress on the heart.
5. Improved Sleep - Walking can not only improve your sleep but also help you fall asleep more easily, however walking just before you head off to bed is not advisable.
6. Boosts energy levels - Walking has been proven to improve your energy levels.
7. Improved immune system - Regular walking can help to improve your immune system which, in turn help to fend off common colds keeping you healthier.
8. Boosts confidence - With your new found fitness and energy you can feel more confident about your body, tell everyone that you've had to buy a new wardrobe as your old clothes don't fit you anymore.
9. Can be done almost anywhere - Walk can be done almost anywhere; you should change your route regularly to keep it interesting and take the time to look around as you walk. This will also help to make the time pass by quicker.
10. Walking can help you live longer - With the large number of health benefits walking can help you live a longer life. Walking just 2miles a day can reduce the risk of disease by up to 50%.
    

It's now recommended that adults should participate in at least 150 minutes of medium to high intensity exercise each week. For this reason we hold walking at the centre of our Wild About Fitness boot camps as one of the prime ways to both lose weight and to get fit. We believe that fitness is for everyone and focus on exercise that can be done once you return home from your course.