Walking May Not Be Good Enoughby Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger 19 Mar 2009 03:32 PM Remember those reports that claimed getting some exercise is better than skipping out on physical fitness altogether? Well, according to new reports, that statement may need to be amended-slightly. Once upon a time (translation: a few months ago) walking was considered a decent form of exercise. But now, researchers at the University of Alberta say they have evidence that proves walking may not be enough for individuals to experience significant health benefits. According to the study's author, generally, low-intensity activity such as walking will not provide a person marked health benefits compared to programs that occasionally elevate the intensity. Researchers noted that their primary concern is that many doctors encourage patients with health issues to increase the amount of time they spend walking, but neglect to focus on the effort put forth during the exercise. The new study put the popular 10,000-step exercise program to the test against a traditional fitness program, which incorporated cardio activities on equipment such as treadmills and stationary bicycles. The first group was asked to walk at a moderate- intensity, a level allowing for one or two sentences of conversation with ease. Meanwhile, the other group completed their daily walks at a self-selected pace. In the end, the group that walked at a moderate-intensity displayed greater oxygen capacity and lower blood pressure rates than the other group. The bottom line, researchers say, is that walkers should not concentrate on the total number of daily steps accumulated; rather, they should pay more attention to the pace or effort invested in taking those steps. Researchers say to increase the effectiveness of your fitness program you must add some intensity to your workout. For example, if you are taking 10,000 steps per day, then make sure that at least 400 of them are done at a brisk pace. Related Articles: What is Moderate-Intensity Exercise? Something is Better Than Nothing Creating an Affordable Fitness Plan How Often Do You Use Your Home Gym? Bad Things Happen When You Stop Going to the Gym Learn more about Michele Cheplic  Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism. Relevantfitness tags parenting | family | Kids | holidays | weight loss | Food | pregnancy | relationships | children | ideas User Comments FitnessTreadmills (26) 20 Mar 2009 11:30 AMWow, this goes against what we have heard for such a long time. However, I would think that most people using a treadmill challenge themselves - at least to some degree - to keep some effort involved. When I use the treadmill, I am usually 'working against myself' in that I go faster, or try to change the incline...something to make it more interesting. Fitness Treadmills  Michele Cheplic |
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