There are some parts of the fitness experience that we take for granted as simply good for us. Whether it's swimming, cycling, or yoga, for example, many of us will pick up these healthy hobbies without really thinking too much about what it is they are looking to achieve.

For many of us, the first step on our fitness journey, pun intended, is increasing our steps while walking around the neighbourhood, or on the treadmill. So, it's important that we do what we can to understand what we have to look forward to from walking and improving our daily steps.

At Lichico Fitness, we are passionate about providing solutions for those looking to improve their daily exercise routines. From our basic underdesk treadmills to our incline treadmill varieties, we do everything we can to provide a quality cardio experience from home.

So, let's take a look at the benefits of walking, and how walking can support your health journey.

Strengthen Your Immune System

Walking can boost your immune function, helping you stay healthy during cold and flu season. A study of over 1,000 people found that those who walked at least 20 minutes a day, five days a week, had 43% fewer sick days. And when they did get sick, their symptoms were milder and didn’t last as long. With our treadmills, you can build a consistent walking routine to keep your immune system strong year-round.

It Helps to Cut Down Cravings, Especially For Sugar

Most of us at one time or another have struggled with issues of cravings and urges to make unhealthy decisions, and it may be surprising to learn that sugar cravings can be supported and lessened by walking too. Even just a 15-minute stroll releases endorphins and can be enough to distract from the sensation of the craving, making it a fantastic one-two punch of support.

Walking Promotes Weight-Reducing Genes

Did you know that regular walking can counteract the effects of genes linked to weight gain? Studies in Australia have found that many people a large portion of the population is dissatisfied with their bodies in terms of weight, which has made weight management one of the key reasons that people begin their fitness journies. Luckily, regular walking does pose a supportive solution.

A Harvard study of over 12,000 people found that brisk walking for about an hour a day cut the impact of 32 obesity-promoting genes in half. For those who are struggling with weight management, that means increasing your number of steps, even as a light exercise, can be a key part of your weight regulation journey.

Decreases the Risk of Certain Cancers

Walking is a powerful tool for reducing the risk of breast cancer, among other forms of cancer. Research conducted by the American Cancer Society revealed that women who walked for seven or more hours each week experienced a 14% reduction in breast cancer risk compared to those who walked three hours or fewer per week. Even for women with risk factors like being overweight or using supplemental hormones, walking provided significant protection.

Ease Joint Pain and Prevent Arthritis

Walking isn’t just good for your heart—it’s great for your joints too! Studies show that walking five to six miles a week can reduce arthritis-related pain and even prevent arthritis from developing. By lubricating joints and strengthening supporting muscles, walking helps protect areas like the knees and hips, which are prone to osteoarthritis. Our treadmills provide a low-impact, joint-friendly surface to keep you moving comfortably.

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Walking is a fantastic part of any fitness and weight loss journey, and between walking around your neighbourhood, walking on your underdesk treadmill, and simply ditching the car when going to the shops, it's always easier than you think to get your steps in and take control of your cardio journey.