What happens to your body when you walk for 30 minutes a day

For National Walking Month we have decided to take a look at the benefits of kick starting a fitness routine that is simply based on walking 30 minutes per day.

You might not think that this will do much for your overall health, but walking not only improves physical fitness but it can also assist with boosting mental health too. Here are five reasons you should be walking 30 minutes every day:

1. You'll lose inches

It might not seem as fast as some high intensity workouts for inch loss, but walking 30 minutes a day consistently helps to burn fat and tones the abdominal area gradually. You'll start to feel your jeans get looser before you know it.

2. Reduces the risk of heart disease

Staying active on a daily basis is a big factor in reducing the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. According to the BHF it can reduce blood pressure and help to cut cholesterol - even just for 30 minutes a day! Start small if you need to and get moving for only 10 minutes - you will gradually work your way up! 

3. Toned legs

Walking regularly can help with overall posture and with strengthening and toning of the leg muscles. Getting a consistent routine in will see you begin to tighten muscles and give an overall toned look to your legs.

4. It can prevent osteoporosis

Not only does walking daily help with the outward appearance, it can also help internally too. Walking is a low impact way to help to strengthen bones and increase bone density, which may ultimately prevent osteoporosis and other bone and joint problems later in life.

5. Improves mood and increases energy levels

Lastly, it is not only physical fitness that walking can help with. Walking increases energy levels and promotes better mental health for a couple of reasons. One is that when you get out and about on the move, you increase circulation and the supply of oxygen around the body, making you feel more energised. Secondly, exercise can increase endorphins, which are mood elevators that can make us feel happier.