3 Benefits of Having a Walking Buddy: Why You Need One Now

I have only recently gotten into walking. For years, I have focused on strength training, but in recent times my motivation for lifting weights is lacking. I started walking consistently a year ago following a serious back injury, and it has been good to me. On the days when my motivation is not there, a walk makes me feel good and keeps my body moving. Some days, making the decision to take a walk can be challenging, but one thing will usually get me moving no matter what: a walking buddy.

It does not matter if it is my sister, my daughters, or my husband (when I can get him to go) a walking buddy changes the game in so many ways. While chatting with some of you, I have heard you mention you do not do a lot of walking because of not having someone to go with. While there or other good options to use on your walks, let me challenge you to get a walking buddy to help you get going now. Here are a few benefits to find your walking buddy immediately.

Listen, walking with a buddy is the perfect opportunity to catch up. If you put my sister and I together, we are going to have a good old chat fest. Recently, we went on a six mile walk that seemed to fly by. Between talking about our everyday lives, and catching up on our shows we watch together, we had a blast. Not to mention we had a good belly laugh. I mean I had to stop walking for a few minutes because I was laughing so hard. I like to walk with my daughters and catch up on what is happening in their lives, and all of this is going while we are getting our steps in which is a win win situation in my book.

Doctor Jeff Winternheimer recently mentioned the benefit of a walking buddy because of how it helps our brain. He called it dual task exercise. According to Doctor Winternheimer, the act of walking and talking at the same time helps prevent the risk of Alzheimer's. Consistent activity like walking helps support brain health so why not add a walking buddy to the equation for even more benefits. I wonder if my walk and talks with you all in stories count too!

Finally, adding a walking buddy to your routine helps with motivation and accountability. I know there are days when I do not want to get out and walk, but the moment I have someone say they will go with me, it pushes me more. I never would have completed the 10-mile walking challenge very well on my own last spring although I was prepared to do it. Those 10 miles were long but the enjoyable conversation I had for three hours helped it go by much faster. The motivation helps fuel me, and when I make a plan to go walking with my buddy, then I am more prone to be accountable and show up.

So, what are you waiting for? The weather is perfect for grabbing your bestie or spouse and heading out for a good walk. You will motivate each other, spend some quality time together, and add some health benefits you may not have even considered.