Walking is one of the easiest ways to exercise. It does not require a lot of equipment, and it has so many benefits.

Here are several things walking can do for you:

Increase your stamina and endurance
This is exciting news! If you find yourself exhausted at the end of the day—too tired to even enjoy your family—make regular exercise a part of your life. Once it becomes a habit you won’t want to give it up, because it will make you feel so good!

Reduces stress
How many people do you know that want to reduce stress? Exercise activates your endorphins, which are neurotransmitters (biochemical substances), in the brain that produce a sense of well being. We not only feel stronger and healthier, but also have the ability to deal with everyday stress in our lives in a positive way.

Reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke
This is a very important benefit, since coronary heart disease is recognized as the leading killer in the United States, and nearly half of these deaths occur among women.

Strengthens your immune system
Walking can actually increase your resistance to stress and illness.

Strengthens your bones and joints
This is an added benefit for women, because strong bones and joints can decrease a woman’s chance for osteoporosis.

Decreases your appetite
I don’t know many people that wouldn’t want this benefit! You won’t be as hungry because exercise acts as a natural appetite suppressant.

Increases the number of calories you burn
By walking and increasing the number of calories you burn, you will accelerate weight loss and positively influence weight control.

Strengthens your heart and lungs
Walking can help these organs work more efficiently. Exercise strengthens your heart muscle, and a stronger heart will last much longer than a weak heart.

Decreases a woman’s risk for breast cancer
Studies have shown that women who engage in exercise at least 3 times a week have a decreased chance of developing breast cancer.

Decreases your resting arterial blood pressure
Exercise lowers your blood pressure.

Improves your blood lipid profile
Exercise lowers your LDL (low-density lipids), or bad cholesterol, while raising your HDL (high-density lipids), or good cholesterol. 

With all these health benefits, why not start walking today?