As a nation of many people with sedentary jobs, Americans are exercising less each year. Yet, one of the simplest forms of exercise is also one of the most effective. Walking is a great way to improve or maintain one’s overall health.

According to The Better Health Channel (BHC), daily walks can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and some cancers.

Science chair, Erin Flynn, said, “Ever since I got two dogs about 10 years ago, I began to walk on a daily basis. It is important and necessary for dogs to get their exercise as much as possible, and walking is the perfect solution.”

Flynn said, “Since I often play soccer, it seems like walking doesn’t do anything; however, I know that it contributes to my good health. In general, walking makes a difference and everyone should walk on a daily basis. It has been proven to improve one’s health and it’s possibly one of the easiest ways to get in shape.”

In a study of more than 70,000 women, American Cancer Society (ACS) researchers found that walking can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Even after being diagnosed, women who walk regularly have a greater chance of survival than those who are inactive.

Improved heart health has also been associated with regular walking. Studies have shown that moderate physical activity is associated with positive health results, including preventing heart disease.

Walking is a weight-bearing exercise and some of the benefits of carrying body weight include increased cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness, reduced body fat and improved muscle strength as well as muscle endurance.

Flynn said, “Besides the reason that I have dogs, walking is proven to strengthen bones and improve one’s balance.”

Since walking is low impact, it does not have the same potential for injury as jogging, but it can offer all the benefits.

Sophomore Courtney Mello said, “My mom walks every day and she often asks me to go walking with her. Although I only walk with her on some days, I still exercise every day because I play basketball.”

Unlike some other forms of exercise, walking is free and doesn’t require any special equipment or training. Taking extra steps every day will make walking a part of a healthy lifestyle.

Mello said, “I have a lot of things on my mind and when I walk or exercise in general, I’m able to escape my troubles and easily clear my mind.”