Walking doesn't sound very hardcore. Yet it is an activity that can help you achieve goals, allow you to recover better and can be perfectly combined with your intensive workouts in the gym. Plus, it's one of the easiest ways to lose fat and relax. Preferably do it outside in a green, quiet environment.
Why would you go walking if you burn calories less quickly than with a more intensive cardio workout such as running or HIIT training (high-intensity interval training)?
1. Burn fat
Walking is a calm, steady workout that, unlike running, directly uses fat stores instead of glycogen. Glycogen is a small supply of glucose that your body stores in the muscles and liver. The body does this to use it during major efforts that require a lot of energy quickly. This supply is therefore not or hardly used when walking. A constant, gentle activity such as walking, where the heart rate remains relatively low, ensures that you burn fat and become even drier. That is why it is also a good activity to do during your cut.
2. Little risk of injury and helps with recovery
Recovery is very important, especially for athletes who are very serious about strength training. Strength training and nutrition are first priorities. Cardio can be a good addition, but should never hinder strength training. However, strength training can often be combined with other sports without this hindering your muscle growth. Many strength athletes don't want too much cardio in their program because they are afraid of losing their gains. However, hybrid training – combining multiple sports – can sometimes give your body a boost. However, always take into account your training goals and that your intensity and rest periods are in balance. Good muscle recovery is essential!
Walking is therefore a nice activity. The chance of injuries is very small. That's why you don't have to worry about long-term injuries that will prevent you from training in the gym. Walking also ensures good circulation, which helps with muscle recovery and is good for the heart.
3. Lower cortisol levels
Another important factor is the stress hormone cortisol, which in high levels can cause muscle breakdown. Endurance training can increase cortisol levels, although it will not quickly lead to the breakdown of your muscle mass. However, it is better to move calmly and evenly to promote recovery after intensive strength training - high load - and to calm the body.
If you are performing at the peak of your abilities, for example in bodybuilding, it is important to avoid stress as much as possible for optimal muscle recovery. Especially during the cutting phase. A daily walk has a positive influence on your overall condition. Especially when you do this in a green environment, it can reduce stress.
4. Less feeling of hunger
Another advantage of walking is that you feel less hungry than after an intensive HIIT training or endurance training. This makes it easier for you to keep your calorie intake within limits. Especially if you are in your cutting phase. However, on the other hand, it takes a relatively long time. With endurance training and HIIT you create a calorie deficit more quickly and therefore ultimately burn more fat. However, if you immediately eat it again by compensating for an unpleasant feeling of hunger, it will of course not have the desired effect.
In short, walking is a good, safe and smart activity that is easy to integrate into your daily life and in addition to your strength training. Moreover, it provides many health benefits.
