Walking in Winchester

What are the surprising health benefits of walking in Winchester?

When walking in Winchester you will have noticed that it is difficult to walk far without encountering a hill. For many this is a discouragement to walk but you should know that there are many reasons to persevere. The following facts from Harvard and other top universities should encourage you.1. It counteracts the effects of weight-promoting genes.Harvard researchers looked at 32 obesity-promoting genes in over 12,000 people to determine how much these genes actually contribute to body weight. They then discovered that, among the study participants who walked briskly for about an hour a day, the effects of those genes were cut in half.2. It helps tame a sweet tooth. A pair of studies from the University of Exeter found that a 15-minute walk can curb cravings for chocolate and even reduce the amount of chocolate you eat in stressful situations. And the latest research confirms that walking can reduce cravings and intake of a variety of sugary snacks.3. It reduces the risk of developing breast cancer. Researchers already know that any kind of physical activity blunts the risk of breast cancer. But an American Cancer Society study that zeroed in on walking found that women who walked seven or more hours a week had a 14% lower risk of breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week. And walking provided this protection even for the women with breast cancer risk factors, such as being overweight or using supplemental hormones.4. It eases joint pain. Several studies have found that walking reduces arthritis-related pain, and that walking five to six miles a week can even prevent arthritis from forming in the first place. Walking protects the joints — especially the knees and hips, which are most susceptible to osteoarthritis — by lubricating them and strengthening the muscles that support them.5. It boosts immune function. Walking can help protect you during cold and flu season. A study of over 1,000 men and women found that those who walked at least 20 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week, had 43% fewer sick days than those who exercised once a week or less. And if they did get sick, it was for a shorter duration, and their symptoms were milder.At Winchester Spine Centre we would like to help you get all these benefits from walking in Winchester, as well as tips from movement expert and Alexander Technique teacher Finn Kellow-Webb who will help make your walking more efficient and comfortable, come for a walk with us during National Walking Month, (May 2016).We have two walks, Monday 23rd May 2016 and Friday 27th May 2016 both starting at 12.30pm from River Park Leisure Centre in Winchester.There will be a brief chat from Finn giving you the fundamentals of good walking technique and then its off for a gentle 20 minute walk to practice what you've learned and a chance to ask questions about how to improve your own walking experience.Call clinic reception on 01962 843242 to book your place.