No matter how happily you might start your day, you may end up feeling a little down once you’re about to start your daily commute. Let’s face it: taking public transportation and walking every single day for work is a constant challenge, add to that the unforgiving rush hours in the Metro.
Generally speaking, commuting ultimately involves walking from point A to point B, but this simple activity is made tedious because walking can be painful if done for long periods, especially under the harsh and unpredictable weather.
While these things give walking a bad rep, it’s always good to know the benefits of this activity:
5 Great Benefits of Walking: Why Commuting Isn’t Such a Bad Thing
5. It makes you fit.
Walking is as good a workout as running and it may even be better. Unlike fast-paced cardio exercises like running and cycling, walking puts less impact on the joints. According to a study by James O’Keefe and his colleagues published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, intense training or exercises can increase your risk of heart problems. Besides, it helps you shed unwanted pounds. When you walk, you use up more muscles since you carry the weight of your body, making it easier to burn calories.
4. It relaxes you.
You can literally walk stress away – if you brisk-walk, that is. Well, for commuters trying to make it to work on time, this is easy. Quick-paced walking increases endorphins in the body, which helps reduce stress hormones. So, if you ever need time out from work stress, take a stroll to clear your mind and feel more at ease.
(RELATED: 5 Reasons Why You Should Start Walking)
3. It makes you socially aware.
By walking, you’ll get to see different people everyday whom you might eventually come to know and be friends with.
Walking also exposes you to the outside, making you updated with the newest establishments and hangout spots that just opened – things you can’t actually do when you’re sitting at the backseat of a car.
2. It boosts your energy.
2. It boosts your energy.You might not always wake up happy and full of life, but walking can easily boost your energy. By doing this, you won’t feel tempted to take a nap by the time you get to work and instead feel ready to take on the day. If you’re sitting for extended hours at work, it helps to take light walks every half hour to avoid feeling sluggish and tired.
1. It is eco-friendly.
By walking, you can contribute to preserving the environment and reducing your carbon footprint. Try walking when going to nearby places to help lessen the greenhouse gases churned out by vehicles.
Now, the idea of walking is one thing, but doing it the right way is another. That said, it’s important to keep in mind how you can walk properly and comfortably. Here’s how:
–Â Keep a good posture. Stand straight; don’t lean forward or backward with your chin up; and don’t look down while walking.
– Wear the right footwear. Wearing heels or ill-fitting shoes will only guarantee blisters, discomfort, and more serious injuries down the line. Opt for a lightweight pair that’s made for city walking, like the Skechers GOwalk line, the number one walking shoe in the US. It has slip=on, lace-up and sandal versions, which all feature GOga Mat Technology with high-rebound cushioning to ensure that every stride is effortless and comfortable.
–Â Try not to focus on your smartphone while walking. You can always pause and check your phone if absolutely needed, but avoid this when you’re on the move to prevent accidents.
Your daily commute involving lengthy walks isn’t as bad as you think. You can keep your body in shape, feel more relaxed and energized, and even help the environment when you choose to walk.
