Health Benefits of Walking a Half Marathon

Lace up your shoes and get ready for the San Diego Half Marathon! People from all over the city will come together on March 12th, 2017 for this fun event. The half marathon route starts at Petco Park and winds through downtown San Diego, Harbor Drive, Liberty Station, Mission Hills, Hillcrest, and Balboa Park, ending with a block party in the Gaslamp. You can also opt for the shorter relay or 5K routes. No matter which route you choose, you’ll get to take in the sights of some of San Diego’s most exciting and beautiful areas, all while getting some exercise! As an added bonus, the event benefits some great causes, including Make-a-Wish San Diego, Toys for Joy, and the San Diego Police Officers Association.

 

When you think marathon, you probably think of running. But if running isn’t your thing, you can still take part by walking! Walking can be just as good for you as running, and can even be better for you in some cases.

 

Walking is easier on the body

Walking is a less intense and lower-impact activity than running. If you’re just beginning to exercise, walking is a great way to start building up your strength and endurance. Walking is also good for people with health problems. While running burns calories quicker and is better for weight loss, it is high intensity, which can be rough on your heart and immune system as well as your muscles and joints. When you walk, you’re less likely to end up with hip, knee, ankle, or shin injuries. Overall, walking provides a lower intensity workout that is easier to sustain.

 

Walking has the same major health benefits as running

Just because walking is a lower impact activity doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its fair share of health benefits. Walking is a great way to get your cardio in—the American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise five times a week. Like running, it’s aerobic exercise, which can help you lose weight, sleep better, and boost your energy and mood. Walking also strengthens muscles, which helps burn fat, so walk the San Diego half marathon if you are looking to slim down..

Studies show that walking can decrease your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease as much, or even more, as running. These are long-term benefits; research suggests that walking quickly or jogging slowly for 1 to 2.5 hours a week may lower risk of death by 25%.

 

So next time you hear about a marathon you’d like to take part in, sign up! If you don’t feel like running, remember that you can still take part in these great community events while walking your way to a healthier lifestyle.

 

Exercise is a key part of maintaining your health, but everyone’s body is different. Talk with your doctor about what kinds of exercise are right for you. Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups has more than 850 doctors located throughout San Diego County. Find one today.

 

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