When was the last time that you took a walk around the neighborhood? Last week or maybe this morning. Did you know that not staying active can be damaging to your health?
According to research, 25 to 35 percent of Americans are not active. They have sedentary lives where they do not get the recommended exercise. These idle times are posing a risk to their overall health and backs.
One of the easiest and simplest ways to stay active is by walking. You can accomplish in the mornings, walking your dog or even be done during a break at work. Our chiropractor West Omaha experts share with you these three benefits of walking and how many steps you should get in every day.
The benefits of walking for your back
Relieves back pain
Whether you work from home or doing labor, you can suffer from back pain. According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), one-half of Americans who are working have reported having back pain at least once a year. This could mean that your back went out, or you suffer from lower back pain.
Walking is an effective way to relieve and prevent back pains. This type of movement helps increase the blood flow to your spine. When there is no physical activity, your spine's blood vessels can become constricted and cause you pain.
Improves your posture
Sitting at a desk for eight hours a day and five days a week can take a toll on your back. You might even find yourself slouching if you have no proper desk furniture at home. Not sitting correctly for long periods can result in bad posture and back problems.
The chiropractor West Omaha experts believe that walking can help your posture by strengthening your back muscles. When you are not as active, your back muscles can become weak and cause you to develop bad posture.
By walking regularly, you are strengthening your muscles that can help improve your posture. Maintaining a good posture can help prevent back problems, headaches, improve your sleep and reduce the chances of developing heart disease.
Keeps you active
If you suffer from back problems, you understand that some exercises are too painful. High-impact exercises put high-impact on your joints. This type of exercise is not recommended for people, especially those with joint problems.
A safe and effective exercise is walking. It is a low-impact exercise that puts a low impact on your joints. Walking can keep you fit and healthy without putting a strain on your back. It improves your flexibility, keeps your spine healthy, improves mood and reduces the chances of chronic diseases.
How much walking should you be doing?
Now that you know the benefits of walking, it is time to find the correct amount of steps to take. You have probably heard 10,000 steps thrown out there. However, 10,000 steps are not appropriate for everyone. You have to look at your activity levels.
According to the Mayo Clinic, you should start with 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day - which is the average for Americans. From there, you will create your baseline and start to increase your steps by 1,000. Your overall goal should be 10,000 steps a day.
Need back pain relief?
For extra assistance relieving your back pain, visit a chiropractor West Omaha professional. At Wisniewski Chiropractic, we help alleviate any back pain and help you increase your mobility. Schedule your appointment today!
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