Walking is an effective, low-cost intervention for preventing and managing low back pain. Studies show it can significantly extend pain-free periods and reduce recurrence risk by up to 43%.
Regular walking is as beneficial as other forms of exercise for chronic low back pain, improving pain levels, disability, quality of life, and fear avoidance.
Walking offers numerous health benefits beyond pain relief, including improved cardiovascular health, better sleep, increased resilience, and potential reversal of cellular aging mechanisms.
Walking has been shown to be meditative.
Walking is a proven creativity booster.
Walking outdoors, especially in forested areas, can provide substantial psychological advantages beyond those of regular walking. These nature-immersed strolls have been shown to significantly improve mental health by diminishing a range of negative emotional states. Participants often report decreased feelings of depression, reduced tension and anxiety, lowered anger levels, and less fatigue and confusion. Walking outside at solar noon — wearing minimal clothing — will also maximize the benefits of sun exposure for those who live an indoor life.
Nordic walking involves walking with fixed-length ski poles and uses 90% of your muscles, providing a lower and upper body workout in one. It also requires about 18% to 25% more oxygen consumption compared to walking without poles at the same speed. by JM MD
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The Lancet June 19, 2024
The Lancet June 19, 2024, Introduction
CNN Health June 19, 2024
The Conversation June 19, 2024
The Lancet June 19, 2024, Summary
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