The Advantages And Benefits Of Walking Outdoors

Walking Outdoors

There are many advantages of walking outdoors, preferably in the park or around a track, or even in and around your own neighborhood.

1. You get to breathe fresh air 2. The environment changes depending on where you are, and this can be refreshing 3. You get a chance to interact and mingle with other people 4. If walking during the day, you can benefit from sunlight and get Vitamin D

You can always vary your routine depending on your mood. Some people generally walk around their neighborhood for 15 to 20 minutes on a daily basis. For a change, they sometimes head to the park and walk for half an hour or so. You can even take along a family member or a friend with you to make your walk more interesting and fun.

Stationary

These exercises, called range of motion exercises, are performed at the joints. For instance, such an exercise for the foot will rotate ankle joint. This can be done by sitting on a chair and lifting the foot affected by neuropathy. Circle the foot, first in a clockwise direction followed by the same motion in the opposite, counter clockwise direction. This should be done for at least 5 to 10 times in each direction.

Low Impact Exercises Exercises such as stationary bicycling, walking and swimming are considered to be low impact exercises. These exercises help minimize various complications and reduce the pain caused by neuropathy. They can also enhance the coordination and muscle strength, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

When walking, you should ensure that your pelvis is slightly tucked in and that your muscles in the lower abdomen are ‘pulled’ towards your spine’s base. Begin by walking for short distances initially, and as you gain stamina and feel better, increase the duration as well as the distance.

When swimming or riding the bike, make use of your full ankle join function. You can rude pain and stiffness of the joint in this