5 Ways Walking Your Dog Daily Can Benefit You
We all know that taking your dog for a daily walk is beneficial to your pet, but it can also be beneficial for your health too! Here are five great reasons why.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Walking your dog for 30 minutes or more a day not only helps your pet maintain a healthy weight, but it helps us maintain a healthy weight, too. When you add 30-60 minutes of exercise a day, you can avoid weight gain and lessen your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other ailments. Plus, walking is an easy, inexpensive, and natural way to exercise! You don’t need to get in your car, there is no membership fee, and all it requires is you putting on some good walking shoes and opening your door.
Increase Your Energy
Getting outside daily with your pooch can increase your energy levels during the day. It may seem counterintuitive, but if you’re feeling tired or fatigued, grab the leash and head outdoors with your pooch for a 30 minute walk. You may find that taking a walk is a better way to fight your fatigue than taking a nap. According to this study from the University of Georgia, low-intensity exercise reduces fatigue symptoms by 65 percent!
Get Happier
There is a proven link between exercise and overall mental health. Walking daily for 30 minutes or more releases endorphins and is just one of the ways to boost your mood. Moderate exercise can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. So grab your dog and let them enjoy these benefits as well!
Improve Your Sleep
A brisk walk increases your daytime energy levels which leads to better sleep habits. You’ll sleep longer and sounder at night when you add walking your dog for 30 minutes for more to your daily routine. Going for a brisk daily walk won’t just trim you down, it will also keep you up less often at night. A study at the University of Oregon found that people sleep significantly better and feel more alert during the day if they get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week.
Strengthen Your Bond
Spending time with your pet outdoors is the perfect way to bond with your fur baby. Whether it’s walking around the neighborhood, going to the dog park, or hiking hills nearby, walking is a FREE and easy way to get closer to your pet. In addition, it’s a great training opportunity – it’s stops him or her from getting bored and teaches your dog how to behave in the company of other canines.
