When we think about exercise, our minds often jump to intense gym sessions, grueling HIIT workouts, or running marathons. But what if I told you that the most underrated and overlooked exercise might actually be the one that gets you the furthest-walking?
Let’s talk about the hidden power of walking—and why it’s still one of the best forms of exercise you can do, no matter your fitness level, schedule, or goals.
Walking Is Still Exercise—And It Counts
Too many people brush off walking as “not real exercise.” That’s a mistake. It absolutely counts toward your daily movement goals.
For those who feel overwhelmed by the idea of going to a gym or doing complex workout programs, walking is the perfect entry point. It’s accessible, gentle, and can be seamlessly added to your routine. And perhaps most importantly, it helps build the most crucial part of fitness: consistency.
You don’t have to burn yourself out with intense programs to see benefits. Walking gives you space to move your body without the mental and physical fatigue that sometimes comes with high-intensity workouts.
The Benefits Go Far Beyond Weight Loss
Yes, walking can help with fat loss (more on that in a bit), but the benefits don’t stop there. Regular walks can:
- Improve cardiovascular health and circulation
- Support healthy digestion and lower post-meal blood sugar
- Boost mood and reduce stress levels
- Spark creativity and enhance focus (walking meetings, anyone?)
It’s not just about how you look. Walking supports your body and mind in ways that promote long-term health.
Why Walking Works
Walking works because it’s simple and sustainable. It doesn’t require special equipment, gym memberships, or fancy gear. You can walk around the block, at the park, or on your lunch break.
It’s also incredibly joint-friendly, making it ideal for people who struggle with running or high-impact exercises. Plus, walking can be broken into smaller chunks throughout the day. A few 10-minute walks add up and are easier to fit into a busy schedule than a one-hour gym session.
Walking and Fat Loss—The Perfect Pairing
One of the hidden powers of walking is how well it supports fat loss without placing additional stress on your body. It burns calories, promotes recovery, and encourages more daily movement—known as NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis).
NEAT plays a huge role in your daily calorie burn, and walking is one of the easiest ways to boost it naturally. When paired with strength training and solid nutrition, it helps create a sustainable, lower-stress path to fat loss.
How to Make Walking Part of Your Routine
Want to make these changes stick? Here are some easy ways to integrate it into your life:
- Pair your walk with a favorite podcast, audiobook, or playlist
- Use it as a “moving meeting” during calls or brainstorming sessions
- Take a 10-minute walk after meals to support digestion and blood sugar
- Track your steps if it motivates you—but don’t let numbers control you. Focus on progress over perfection.
If you’re local to Grand Haven or West Michigan, I host a casual Saturday morning walking group.
We meet for an easy 30-minute (or longer) walk, followed by coffee and conversation. It’s a great way to move your body, meet like-minded people, and make walking part of your routine—without overthinking it.
All fitness levels welcome. Come as you are.
👉 Click here to learn more and join us.
Real Talk: Stop Waiting for Perfect
Too many people get stuck in the “what’s the best workout?” rabbit hole and never start. Stop waiting for the perfect plan. Stop overcomplicating it. Walking might be exactly what your body and mind need right now.
Lace up your shoes. Step outside. Breathe. Move.
That’s it.
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