Walking is well known for being a low impact and accessible form of exercise, but the benefits are more than just providing easy exercise. Those with low back pain can benefit from incorporating walking into their life and routine. For many people with low back pain, various forms of exercise can aggravate low back pain or even increase the pain however walking can be a solution to those issues.Â
Here are some of the ways that adding walking into your routine can help with back pain.Â
1. Maintain a healthy weight or lose weight, which can help to decrease stress on the spine.
2. Maintain and strengthen muscles in the legs, hips and core which can help to provide stability to the spine and improve balance.
3. Aids in circulation of the cardiovascular system which can improve heart health, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes as well as various other conditions.Â
4. Increase energy levels and help to regulate metabolism.Â
5. Decrease stress and improve mood. Spending time outdoors or even exercising indoors can help to alleviate stress.Â
6. Increase your range of motion and flexibility while maintaining mobility and ability to provide daily activities into your senior years.Â
Here in Edmond, we are lucky to have several great walking trails, park and sidewalks. In northern Edmond, Mitch Park has paved walking trails and plenty of parking; the distance around the entire park is 2.8 miles. E.C. Hafer Park is another location in central Edmond with not only great scenery but a walking trail that totals 1.4 miles. If you are in Guthrie and need walking location, Highland Park just a block off East Noble offers 1.1 miles of trails.
Remember to start small with an achievable distance on a level surface such as a sidewalk or paved walking trail, supportive shoes and plenty of water for hydration. Make it a social event and join up with a friend or family member to help each other stay active. If walking irritates or increases your back pain, contact and discuss this with your doctor.Â
Have fun and time to hit the trails!Â
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