Why join a walking group?

6 Reasons to Join a Walking Group

Walking for health doesn’t always get the praise it deserves. But a consistent walking routine can increase self-confidence, better your heart health and relieve stress and anxiety. If walking by yourself every day has become a bit boring, make your routine more exciting by joining a group and walking with others.

Here, six ways you can benefit from joining a walking group:

1

IT WILL HOLD YOU ACCOUNTABLE

On days when you’re tired and unmotivated, you’ll be much less likely to skip your walk if your group is counting on you. The right group encourages you and turns it into something you look forward to doing.

2

IT WILL MAKE TIME FLY

Walking with a group adds a level of fun since you can talk with other members. If you’re running out of topics to chat about, you can also play what are often thought of as traditional road-trip games like 20 questions or name that tune.

3

IT WILL CHALLENGE YOU

When you’re walking by yourself you’re more likely to stick to a routine or path you’re comfortable with. A walking group may push you to walk faster or farther than you normally would — or take a new route altogether.

4

IT FOSTERS COMMUNITY

Exercise is essential to good health — but so is having social connections. A 2015 study showed a lack of relationships can actually carry the same health risks as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.

5

IT’S SAFE

There’s safety in numbers, so with your walking group you’ll feel comfortable exploring new parts of your town or walking when it’s darker out.

6

IT WILL HELP YOU CELEBRATE ACHIEVEMENTS

Sticking to a regular exercise routine isn’t easy, so when you reach a weight-loss goal or walk more miles than you ever have, you should celebrate. Your walking group will understand the significance of your accomplishment and be around to help you commemorate the moment.

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