The Best Workout

Well, the answer depends. Are you seeking good health, or a good physique? What about both?

• WALKING

I stand by walking as a mainstay of any exercise regimen. Walking, and hiking, is one of the best cardio exercises. Because it can be done almost anywhere with little to no equipment necessary. It does not require a gym membership either. Leading experts, say that walking not only strengthens the heart and burns calories, but it’s an exercise that can be suitable for any fitness level. It’s not just for beginners. Even those who are considered to be cardiovascularly fit can benefit from a good walk. Brisk walking can burn up to 500 cal per hour. And because it takes 3,500 calories to lose a pound, you could effectively expect to lose 1 pound for every seven hours you walk. If you didn't know other exercise. And, weight loss alone will drastically reduce your cardiovascular disease risk.

• INTERVAL TRAINING

This type of exercise is good not only for your cardiovascular health but can also help you lose weight. Otherwise known as HIIT (high intensity interval training), this is a type of exercise that alternates between periods of high intensity and rest or low intensity. HIIT workouts have been shown to Natalie improve heart health and increase metabolism for weight loss, it's also been shown to boost brain health, improve your mood, build, endurance, is safer for bone and joint health, improves insulin sensitivity, and reduces, chronic disease such as diabetes. It's also a time saving workout. These workouts average 20-45 minutes in total, with most people spending 30 seconds to 3 minutes on intervals and This is a great way to incorporate a variety of cardio exercise, in short intense bursts, with a brief recovery period in between. An example of these exercises can be sprinting, jumping jacks, squats, burpees, push-ups, mountain climbers, high-knees, and more.

• ROWING

Rowing is one of the most efficient ways to achieve a full bodyRowing is one of the most efficient ways to achieve a full body workout. Rowing engages 86% of your body muscle groups, it's low impact, has been demonstrated to reduce stress, improves your joint mobility and overall strength, and is effective for weight loss. Rowing burns up to 600 cal per hour.

• PILATES

Pilates is also a good choice. As it's suitable for all fitness levels. It i's useful for injury prevention and rehabilitation. It promotes increased flexibility, improves mobility, and improves muscle tone and strength by utilizing all the major muscle groups of the body. Pilates has demonstrated the ability to improve core strength, flexibility, posture, and overall body awareness . This is a great exercise for people seeking a more low impact workout. Although there isn't a great cardiovascular benefit, combining something like Pilates with a walking regimen, may be an ideal combination for some.

For older people, as well as those who are just beginning their exercise journey, low impact exercises such as yoga, including chair yoga, somatic exercises, and Tai Chi, may be highly beneficial. Incorporating exercises such as this with a daily walking regimen will be kinder to your joints and may have a profound benefit on your overall health.

If you would like to learn more about healthy food choices, how to reduce inflammation and reduce your overall risk for chronic disease and cancer, as well as maximize your health and empower yourself. Please check out our podcast and sign up for our newsletter.