Walking is not only good for the body; It is a simple and powerful way to take care of the mind and soul. Physical activity, such as walking, reduces stress, improves mood and promotes general well -being. However, physical activity levels in the United States continue to decrease, a trend that threatens both mental and physical health.
Less than half of adults and less than 1 in 5 children in the US perform the recommended amount of physical activity necessary for heart health, according to the statistical update of heart disease and stroke of 2025 of the American Heart Association.
National recommendations demand that children perform at least 1 hour of physical activity every day, but the latest statistics show that less than 19% of children in the US reach that goal. Meanwhile, less than half of adults perform 150 minutes or more recommended weekly physical activity.
Moreover, according to data from a national health and nutrition exam survey, 1 out of 4 American adults remains more than 8 hours a day, which can have negative consequences for physical and mental health.
For decades, the American Heart Association has defended the importance of physical activity in communities throughout the country. These tips and information can help you understand how a quick walk can make a big difference in heart health and mental clarity.
Benefits of physical activity
Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy. Physical health benefits can be obvious, but research suggests that physical activity can also help bring more joy to your life. According to “physical activity guidelines for Americans of 2019”, people who perform the recommended amount of physical activity are less likely to suffer depression.
Regular physical activity improves mood, sharpens the mind, improves sleep and increases general well -being, while reducing the risk of diseases and depression and increases both quality and longevity of life.
How to be more physically active
An exercise as simple as a fast walk can give it an important impulse in its path. You can even give energy to finish other tasks, whether cooking or mandating. Give an impulse to your level of daily physical activity with these tips:
– Exercise outdoors is an excellent way to move. It has been shown that spending time outdoors reduces stress, promotes a sense of belonging and improves mood. It is even better if you can enjoy the sun in the outdoor, which can improve mood, strengthen your immunity and help you obtain vitamin D.
– Invite a relative or friend to accompany him. It is good for them, it is good for you and it is a good company for everyone.
– Instead of asking if you will move today, explore how you will. A walk, a dance or stretch, everything counts.
Involve pets
Pets are part of their family and can help everyone be healthy together. Pets provide a fun reason to spend more time outdoors and do the exercise necessary to reduce the risk of diseases later in life.
Moving with your pet adds more exercise to your routine, which means living longer, reducing the risk of dying of heart attack or stroke, reducing the risk of diabetes, reducing stress and even increasing your happiness and general well -being.
Exercising with your pet can also mean enjoying more socialization. You may meet other dog owners in your area during a walk or in the dog park.
Get more information about how simple habits such as walking can favor your general health in Heart.org/movemore.
