Can Taking A Walk Lower Blood Pressure?

Walking is an ideal exercise because it is low-impact and doesn't require any type of special skill. You don't need any special equipment to start on a walking regimen, and just about anyone can do it. Walking might not seem like much of a workout, but it offers several mental and physical benefits.

Along with helping you lose weight, taking a brisk walk on a consistent basis helps to increase your blood flow, and that can lead to increased energy levels, improved sleep, and a reduction in stress. A regular walk may improve your digestion, help boost your creativity, and reduce joint pain, according to Prevention. Walking after you eat could even help lower your blood sugar. What's more, taking a walk outside can help you think more clearly (via Healthline). Walking also improves your cardiovascular health and can help prevent heart disease, per Mayo Clinic.

How walking affects blood pressure

Brisk walking is exercise, which is why it may help lower your blood pressure. The reason is because over time, regular exercise improves your heart. After a few months, your resting heart rate will drop because your heart and blood vessels are healthier (via Livestrong). One study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine showed that exercise — including walking — was just as effective at lowering blood pressure than some medications. Walking also seemed to have a greater impact on systolic blood pressure. Other research showed that walking was especially helpful in lowering blood pressure in individuals who were obese, per the American Heart Association.

To see the best results, aim for 150 minutes of walking per week. WebMD recommends starting slowly and working your way up if you haven't been active for some time. Eventually, you want to go at a pace that gets your heart rate up and causes you to breathe a little heavier. As always, clear any new workout plan with your doctor.