Walking Your Way to Better Health

Q: I’m a mother of three and I work full-time. I don’t have the time or money to join a gym or take an aerobics class. Will walking provide enough exercise for me?

A: Absolutely. As a busy mom juggling work and family, it’s important to find an exercise routine that fits into your lifestyle without adding extra stress. Walking is one of the most accessible, affordable, and effective forms of exercise you can choose—and yes, it really does count.

Brisk walking offers a wide range of health benefits. It lowers your risk of heart disease, helps regulate blood sugar, supports strong bones, and can even reduce your chances of developing certain cancers. Plus, walking gives you a wonderful opportunity to clear your mind and shake off the stress that naturally builds up during the day.

And there’s more. Walking can be good for your wallet, too.

A study once suggested that if just 10% of adults who were not active started walking regularly, the U.S. could save around $13 billion in medical expenses each year. A follow-up study, published in Physician and Sportsmedicine, looked at 35,000 adults and compared medical costs between those who were active and those who were not. People who walked briskly—or did another form of moderate or vigorous activity for at least 30 minutes, three or more times a week—had significantly lower medical expenses. In fact, their annual healthcare costs were less than half of what the inactive group spent. They also had fewer doctor visits, fewer hospital stays, and used fewer medications.

So if all you can do right now is walk around your neighborhood, through a park, or even just during your lunch break, know that you're doing something truly valuable for your health and well-being. Every step really does count. And with regular walking, you’re not just caring for your body—you’re also protecting your peace of mind and your family's future.