What are some of the benefits to your health from adopting an active commute style?
One of the most common questions I get as an obesity specialist is whether adopting a healthier commuting method will improve your health. The article will provide a detailed answer to that question, including the benefits of an active commute, the steps to take to begin, and how you can get started. Let's explore this topic in detail and see how small changes to our everyday routines can have a significant impact on our health.
Why Active Commuting is Important
It involves walking, biking or using public transport instead of driving to and from work. The importance of active commuting cannot be understated. A study by The Lancet found that people who commute active have lower risks of heart disease and mortality from all causes compared with those who do not. Active commuting helps to maintain a healthy body weight, and also reduces obesity risk, because it encourages regular physical exercise, which is a key component in any weight-management plan.
Get Started With Active Commuting
Start small, and then gradually step up your effort if you want to adopt a more active commute style. You could start by parking further away or getting off the bus earlier than normal and then walking the remainder of the distance. As your stamina increases, you can consider walking or biking the whole distance. Consistency is the key to reaping all of the benefits that active commuters can offer. According to research by the University of Cambridge even moderate physical activity such as walking or biking to work can have substantial benefits for your health if you do it consistently.
Active Commuting Has Health Benefits
- Improvements in Cardiovascular Health According to an American Heart Association study , active commuters can reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.
- Weight management: Commuting active helps to burn calories, maintain a healthy body weight and reduce the risk of becoming obese.
- People who actively commute report a better mental health than people who do not.
- According to a study published in Journal of Applied Physiology, regular physical activities like walking or cycling can improve lung function.
- Reduction in Diabetes Risk: According to the British Medical Journal, people who bike to work are at a lower risk for developing diabetes.
- According to a Lancet study , active commuters live longer.
- A study from the University of Bath revealed that regular physical activity could boost your immunity.
- A Better Sleep: According to an article in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, active commuting improves sleep quality.
- Arthritis Research UK reports that walking or cycling can help improve the health of joints, particularly in the hips and knees.
- According to research from the University of Copenhagen, active commuting such as cycling can help strengthen your leg muscles.
Other Tips on Active Commuting
When you consider adopting an active commute style, always put safety first. If you are cycling, wear the appropriate equipment. Be sure to hydrate and consume a healthy diet in order to prepare your body to handle the additional physical activity. Incorporate flexibility and strength training into your daily routine in order to prevent injury and support active commutes. Remember that even the smallest changes will make a difference to your health.
Conclusion
Adopting an active commute can have many health benefits, including improved mental and cardiovascular health, weight loss, improved lung function, decreased risk of diabetes and increased longevity. It also improves sleep, strengthens the immune system and helps with joint and muscle health. Remember to start small and stay consistent. Every bit counts toward a healthier lifestyle!
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