The benefits of

walking

It’s scientifically proven: walking reduces your risk of breast cancer!

If you walk every day, your chances of getting breast cancer will scale down. This conclusion has been made by the American Cancer society after conducting its 17 year-long Cancer Prevention Study (1992-2009) in which 73,615 postmenopausal women (average age: 62.7 years old) were being examined. 

During their study, the researchers saw a link between exercise and a reduction in the risk of breast cancer. Walking more or less for an hour a day already reduced the risk of cancer by 14%. The participants who were physically very active even had a 25% lower risk of breast cancer. Based on the results of their study, the researchers suggest that exercise has a beneficial effect on hormone levels, weight, sugar metabolism, insulin sensitivity and inflammation. And these factors in particular play a role in the development of post-menopausal breast cancer. 

Because of the fact that recreational walking is a very accessible form of exercise, you can easily build it into your daily routine. Even if you’re not really into sports, it is a very doable option. But if you don’t have a clue how to start your hiking adventure, you can always look for a walking coach. Pink Ribbon itself organises its Pink Ribbon Walks on many locations in our country. Check our website to see if there are walking groups active in your area!

Walking is good for you!

Like Pink Ribbon, Wandelsport Vlaanderen knows that getting sufficient physical activity is hugely important. That is why this organisation is a proud partner of The Pink Walk. Already convinced of the benefits of walking for your overall health? Wandelsport Vlaanderen is happy to list them here again.

Did you know that...

 Walking has a positive effect on your overall condition

Walking strengthens your muscles and bones

Walking improves your stamina so you don't get tired so easily

Walking encourages blood flow to the brain, which clears your head, reduces stress, improves productivity and generates new and creative ideas. 

Walking boosts your memory and concentration levels and can therefore stave off dementia. 

Walking improves the blood flow and oxygenation to the limbs and organs. 

Walking helps you to maintain a healthy weight in combination with a healthy diet. 

Walking promotes the production of endorphins (one of the happy hormones) and has a positive effect on your mood. 

Walking improves your coordination and balance and reduces the risk of falling. 

Walking has a positive impact on your quality of life, sleep, mood and susceptibility to stress. 

Walking is a good way to prevent type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. 

Walking reduces the total amount of cholesterol in your body. 

Walking has a positive effect on your blood pressure

Walking 15 minutes a day can increase life expectancy by 3 years. 

A walk of half an hour a day is enough to reduce the risk of cancer. Healthy eating and moderate exercise lower the risk of death in patients with colon and breast cancer. It also greatly reduces the risk of a relapse.