Walking in midlife and beyond!

Walking is the number one exercise I recommend to most of my clients because it is very easy to do, requires nothing but a pair of tennis shoes, and has tremendous mental and physical benefits.

Here's what you can expect when you start walking for just 30 minutes every day, most days of the week.

Your mood will improve

You know how sometimes it takes a glass of wine or a square (or three) of dark chocolate to blunt the edge of a rough day? Well, going for a walk is a zero-calorie strategy with the same benefits.Research shows that regular walking actually modifies your nervous system so much that you'll experience a decrease in anger and hostility.What's more, when you make your walks social—you stride with, say, your partner, a neighbour, or a good friend—that interaction helps you feel connected.

Your creative juices will start flowing

Whether you're feeling stuck at work or you've been searching for a solution to a tricky problem, research shows it's a good idea to get moving: going for a walk can spark creativity.

Your jeans will get a little looser

This one may seem obvious, but it's certainly a happy benefit for those who start walking regularly

As you continue to walk, you may notice your trousers begin to fit more loosely around your midsection, even if the number on the scale isn't moving much.

That's because regular walking can help improve your body's response to insulin, which can help reduce belly fat walking every day is one of the most effective low-impact ways to mobilise fat and positively alter body composition.

Daily walking increases metabolism by burning extra calories and by preventing muscle loss, which is particularly important as we get older.

The best part? You don't have to slog it out on a treadmill at the gym to see these benefits. One of my clients reduced her body fat by 2% in just one month by walking home from work each day, which was just under a mile.

You'll slash your risk of chronic disease

You'll keep your legs looking great

As we age, our risk of unsightly varicose veins increases—it's just not fair. However, walking is a proven way to prevent those unsightly lines from developing.

If you already suffer from varicose veins, daily walking can help ease related swelling and restlessness in your legs by improving the body’s circulatory system.

Your other goals will start to seem more reachable

When you become a regular walker, you will have established a regular routine—and when you have a routine, you are more likely to continue with the activity and take on new healthy behaviours