Benefits of Walking - How Walking Reduces Health Risks

Basic changes in diet and exercise can lead to a dramatic drop in a person's risk for chronic illnesses in as little as six weeks. Although the notion that proper nutrition and exercise is good for you is not revolutionary, it’s important that people know that major health benefits can come quickly.

A 2005 study confirms aerobic fitness and health benefits for both high intensity walking and lower intensity, high frequency walking.

Most walkers aren't walking far enough, often enough or fast enough to get the full health benefits, according the Center for Disease Control.

Is there a miracle cure for preventing many major diseases? Study after study suggests that brisk walking is the answer.

Analysis of research data shows that moderate and high levels of physical activity added disease-free years to life.

Research shows adults who are physically active in their 50s and early 60s are about 35 percent less likely to die in the next eight years than those who are sedentary. For those who have a high heart risk because of diabetes, high blood pressure or smoking, the reduction is 45 percent.

A study suggests that skipping exercise for two days in a row has negative effects on insulin and metabolism.

Exercise and walking have been shown by research to reduce your risk of catching a cold. Find out more about exercise and your immune system and how to prevent catching a cold.

Studies show that getting active can reduce your risks of dying before your time.

Research suggests that sitting slows the metabolism and may contribute to obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. How can you sit less?

Walking reduces the risks of developing cancer and glaucoma, according to research studies.

Research shows that walking only downhill had surprising benefits in lowering blood sugar levels and LDL cholesterol.

Research shows adults who are physically active in their 50s and early 60s are about 35 percent less likely to die in the next eight years than those who are sedentary. For those who have a high heart risk because of diabetes, high blood pressure or smoking, the reduction is 45 percent.

"We've go plenty of science to tell us what we need to do - get moving!" said Richard Carmona, Surgeon General of the United States.

Senior men were motivated to exercise by primary care counseling on a home walking and strength exercise program. The research study showed that counseling can provides exercise motivation for senior men.

Get out and walk during lunch on this national day sponsored at Blue Cross/Blue Shield companies, held in late April yearly.