Your body requires three types of movement each week

Walking, a popular form of exercise, has long been praised for its accessibility and health benefits. Studies have shown that getting at least 2,300 steps per day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, while weight-bearing exercises like walking can help prevent osteoporosis.

However, some experts argue that while walking is beneficial, it may not be considered high-quality exercise. Melissa Boyd, a certified personal trainer, emphasizes the importance of incorporating different types of movement into your routine for overall health and fitness.

Dr. Carl Cirino, a sports medicine surgeon, highlights the importance of stretching and working muscles in various directions to improve balance and stability. He recommends activities like yoga and Pilates for their effectiveness in this regard.

To achieve functional fitness, experts suggest creating a plan that includes daily movements like walking and stretching, along with cardiovascular work, strength training, and social activities. Breaking down these movements into “exercise snacks” can help integrate movement into your daily routine.

Boyd encourages finding enjoyable forms of movement, such as playing kickball or pickleball, to make exercise feel less like a chore. Cirino emphasizes the importance of finding activities that are interesting and easy to build good exercise habits.

In conclusion, starting slowly and incorporating different types of movement into your routine can lead to improved fitness and overall well-being. Movement inspires movement, and finding activities you enjoy can make exercise more sustainable and enjoyable.