College Health TV
Balancing college life with jobs, study schedules, and personal responsibilities often leaves little time for regular exercise. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, particularly when it comes to burning calories, is crucial for college students’ overall well-being.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to burn calories is through walking, and the best part is that it fits seamlessly into your busy schedule. If you’re looking for an easy way to stay active without hitting the gym, walking is the solution. Here’s why walking is one of the best ways to burn calories and improve your student health.
How Walking Helps Burn Calories
Finding time for a workout can be difficult, but walking is a simple way to burn calories with minimal time commitment. For example, a brisk 15-20 minute walk can help you burn around 100 calories, which is roughly the equivalent of a small snack. If you can walk for 30 minutes, you could burn 200 calories—adding up to the potential for losing two pounds per month. All it takes is a commitment to walking regularly.
While high-intensity exercises like running, cycling, or using gym equipment can also burn more calories, walking is easier on the body and requires less effort. Plus, walking can be done anywhere—on campus, around your neighborhood, or even at the local park—making it an excellent option for busy college students.
Benefits of Walking
- It’s Easy and Accessible
Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise you can do. No need for fancy workout clothes or equipment. All you need are comfortable walking shoes and the willingness to take that first step. - No Special Equipment Needed
Unlike some forms of exercise that require expensive equipment or gym memberships, walking only requires a good pair of shoes, which makes it a highly affordable way to stay fit. - Suitable for Everyone
Whether you’re an athlete or just starting to focus on your health, walking is an activity that works for everyone. If your mobility allows, you can take short or long walks at your own pace. - Gentler on Your Body
Walking is a low-impact exercise that’s easier on your joints and muscles compared to higher-impact workouts like running or jumping exercises. This makes it ideal for students who may experience stress or strain due to busy schedules.
How to Track Your Progress
If you’re wondering how to know if you’ve walked a mile, a simple way is to track your steps or time. In most cities, residential blocks measure about 16-20 blocks per mile, but to be more precise, you can use a pedometer, smartphone app, or wearable fitness tracker like a Fitbit or Garmin. These devices count your steps, track your miles, and help keep you motivated as you work towards your fitness goals.
Fitting Walking Into a Busy Schedule
As a college student, time is often limited. But walking can easily be integrated into your daily routine. Here are some simple ways to add walking to your day:
- Walk During Your Lunch Break
Take advantage of your lunch break by walking around campus or taking a stroll in the park. It’s a great way to clear your mind and fit in some exercise at the same time. - Take the Stairs
Instead of taking the elevator between classes or in dorms, opt for the stairs. This small change will add up and help you burn more calories. - Park Further Away
When parking your car on campus or near a store, choose a spot further from the entrance. Those extra steps you take will quickly add up, and it’s an easy way to sneak in more walking during your day. - Walk to Class or Study Sessions
If possible, try walking to your next class or library session instead of driving or using public transport. It’s an easy way to get in some steps and stay active while attending to your academic commitments.
Make Walking a Habit
Incorporating a 15-minute walk into your daily routine is a simple yet effective way to start burning extra calories and improve your student health. With consistent effort, you’ll find that walking becomes a natural part of your day—and your body will thank you for it.
By making time for walking, you can walk your way to a healthier body and mind while managing your busy college schedule. So, put on those shoes, get moving, and enjoy the benefits of one of the simplest, most accessible forms of exercise available.
