The Benefits of Walking for Those Over 50: Advice from a Cardiologist

Headline: Cardiologist Recommends Walking as the Best Exercise for Those Over 50

As we age, our bodies may experience limitations in movement, but one cardiologist is urging her patients to prioritize walking as a key exercise once they hit the age of 50. Dr. Karol Watson, a cardiologist and co-director of the UCLA preventative cardiology program, emphasizes the importance of walking for overall health and well-being.

According to Dr. Watson, walking is a foundational and universal workout that nearly anyone can do. She states, “The best way to start out [with an exercise program] is with regular walking.” Despite its simplicity, walking offers numerous health benefits comparable to more intense forms of exercise like running. Dr. Watson explains that while running may provide faster results, the benefits of walking are equally significant.

One of the advantages of walking is its accessibility and low-impact nature, making it a safer option for older individuals. Dr. Watson highlights that walking is associated with lower rates of injury compared to other workouts that involve higher impact on the joints.

To make walking more engaging, Dr. Watson suggests varying the pace, incorporating inclines, using weights, or trying Nordic walking to engage different muscle groups. She recommends starting slow and gradually increasing the intensity to achieve a brisk pace, aiming to match the tempo of the song “Staying Alive.”

Before embarking on a walking routine, Dr. Watson advises consulting with a healthcare provider, especially for individuals with medical conditions. With the simplicity and versatility of walking, individuals over 50 can enjoy the benefits of this low-impact exercise to maintain their heart health and overall fitness.