Walking faster has multiple health benefits. Learn to increase your walking speed slowly and steadily to reap its benefits.
Have you ever caught yourself mid-daydream and realized that you are once again the last one in the walking group? Or maybe you watched that community 5K race with a mix of excitement and dread because, honestly, your walking speed reflects more of a leisurely stroll than a brisk pace. We have all been there and felt that way at some point in our lives. But guess what? A whole world of benefits awaits you when you decide to step up your game and increase your walking speed. So, if you’re ready to turn those leisurely strolls into brisk ones, get some tips for walking faster.
Benefits of increasing your walking speed
First of all, why speed up? Well, imagine burning more calories without spending more time working out. Seems like a good deal, right? Speeding up your walk does just that, and more. This can lead to better cardiovascular fitness and even better moods – all just a few steps away. Let’s find out more!
• Walking faster can increase your calorie burn because you end up covering more distance in one time or using more muscles by increasing your walking speed.
• Increases your fitness level
• It even saves you time during your walking workouts by helping you walk the same route in a shorter period of time.
• Plus, it’s like giving your heart an extra dose of love. A brisk walk will raise your heart rate to the level of vigorous-intensity exercise. A faster pace strengthens your heart, making it more efficient at pumping blood. And who wouldn’t want a happy, healthy heart?
What is a good walking speed?
According to British Heart Foundationthe approximate moderate walking pace for a person in good physical condition should be 15 minutes per mile or
9 minutes per kilometer. A brisk walking pace or speed would be considered when a person is able to walk 12 minutes per mile or spend only 7.5 minutes per kilometer.
However, this may vary from person to person as fitness level, age and health status may vary.
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How to increase walking speed?
There are many ways that can help you walk faster, and here are some tips approved by fitness expert Mukul Nagpaul:
1. Work on your posture
Do you remember being harassed to stand up straight? Turns out it wasn’t just to look good. Standing upright opens your lungs, making it easier to breathe, and voilà, you can walk faster. It’s simple but effective, and yes, it’s also what our mothers always asked us to do, says the expert.
2. Swing your arms
Swing those arms. Have you ever noticed how walkers look like they’re about to take flight? This is the power of arm swinging. It propels you forward, giving a boost to your speed. Plus, it’s a low-key arm workout. So, you are ready for a double victory!
3. Take small steps
Think about baby steps, of course. It may sound strange, but shorter, faster steps make you walk faster. It’s more about efficiency, finding that rhythm where your feet barely touch the ground. Taking small, efficient steps won’t make you tired sooner either, so you’ll be able to walk more.
4. Treat yourself to strength training
Strength training, including squats, lunges, and other fun exercises, strengthens your leg muscles, putting more power into your walk. Because every step should feel like you’re moving toward greatness. And as a bonus, you can also say hello to beautiful legs!
Also Read: How to Make Walking Fun: 7 Tips for Fitness Enthusiasts
5. Remember that practice makes a man perfect
Like any skill, knowing how to increase your walking pace requires dedication. Mix in faster intervals during your walks, challenge yourself, try different walking techniques or take different routes, says the expert. But don’t lose your persistence when it comes to practicing brisk walking every day.
6. Get a good pair of walking shoes
You may blame your body or your endurance for your slow pace, but your walking shoes could be the cause. Make sure you have the right pair of shoes to walk faster. Your shoes should be flexible and light. Additionally, you need more cushioned shoes for longer walks.
Now put on those sneakers and start walking towards a fitter, healthier you.
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