Has it been a while since you’ve exercised regularly? Do you have a hard time fitting fitness into your busy schedule? Are you over 40 and concerned about menopausal weight gain? Are you looking for an easy way to add some physical activity to your life? You might want to start walking!
Walking is a great low-impact way to exercise that you can do anywhere, anytime, with no equipment, and with great health benefits!
Why Should Women Over Forty Exercise?
According to the CDC being physically active can reduce your risk of disease, improve your brain health, help you manage weight, and improve bone and muscle strength. Adults who sit less and do even a moderate amount of moderate physical activity gain some health benefits.
In addition, getting regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, reduce blood pressure, improve heart health, reduce anxiety, lower the risk for certain types of cancers, and improve balance and coordination.
It’s never too late to start exercising, and walking is a great way to get started! Here are some reasons for women over 40 to start walking.
An Easy Way to Start
Walking is one of the easiest ways to start a fitness routine. Even if you haven’t exercised in a long time, and even if you’re not in great shape, you can still take up walking.
Just start slow, and take a walk around your house or neighborhood for 10 minutes. As you feel more comfortable, start adding more time.
No Need for a Membership
Outside of a comfortable pair of shoes, there are no special requirements or equipment needed for walking.
On Your Schedule
You can walk just about anywhere at any time. Walking is easy to fit into your schedule. Out shopping for a new dress, take an extra lap around the mall. Is it a beautiful day? Take a walk in your local park. Watching TV in your tiny apartment? Try walking in place during the commercials.
Walk that Stress Away
Physical activity like walking releases endorphins which can help to elevate your mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Over 40 Weight Gain
If you’re a woman over forty, you may be concerned about premenopausal and menopausal weight gain. While exercise won’t reduce those pesky hot flashes it may help you to drop those extra pounds that seem to collect around your midsection so easily as you are nearing menopause.
Better Brain Health
Studies have shown that physical activity such as walking for 30 minutes each day can help to improve brain health and lower your risk of cognitive impairment later in life. For women over forty, regular exercise may also help to reduce the “brain fog” that is commonly associated with perimenopause.
Stronger Bones
For women over 40, menopause can significantly speed up the rate of bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Walking at a brisk pace has been shown to help build and maintain muscle mass and bone strength.
Why should women over forty start walking? Walking is a simple way to start exercising that you can do anytime and anywhere that works for you. Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your health. It can help you to maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk for disease, improve your mood, help your brain, and strengthen your bones.
If you’re a woman over 40 who is considering incorporating walking into your daily routine and have some concerns or questions, contact your family physician at River Bend Medical Associates. We care about women’s health issues, and as part of your medical team, we are here to provide you with the best care in all aspects of your primary care, including helping you to meet your healthy lifestyle goals. For more information on our medical practice, or to make an appointment contact River Bend Medical Associates, or call 916-392-4000.
