Walking has taken off so much in the Netherlands that it sometimes seems as if you don’t count if you haven’t hiked for several days.
Don’t worry about anything. Even just a short walk — think half an hour — you’ll feel better, not just physically, but also mentally, according to major research.
Research on walking
Researchers from the University of Queensland in Australia evaluated data from 218 previous studies that included a total of 14,170 people. The goal was to determine the effect of different types of physical exertion on mental health.
The study shows that even limited physical activity, such as walking, can reduce feelings of depression in both men and women. Slightly intense exercise is also beneficial.
to retreat? Boost endorphins
Lead researcher Dr Hans Hans said: ‘Although low-intensity exercise such as walking or yoga is beneficial, the results suggest that the benefits increase as the intensity of the activity increases.’ Michael Nutell.
Scientists attribute this to the fact that the body produces more endorphins during intense activity, which are hormones that help combat feelings of depression. This positive effect may also have something to do with the social interaction that comes with sports.
Power for women
Furthermore, the study showed that women and young people benefit more from strength training, while men and older people achieve greater results through activities such as yoga and qi gong. The latter is a Chinese calm movement theory that focuses on feeling more energetic.
And after walking? Stretch and stretch for ultimate relaxation.
source: University of Queensland
