Dramatically-lowered testosterone and increased hormonal concerns…no bueno!
But, here’s some awesome news: A more recent study found that men who walked at least 4,000 steps per day, aka roughly 1.5-2 miles, improved their chances of maintaining healthy testosterone levels in their later years.
(Even more) awesome news? Stacking walking with resistance training, aka lifting weights, helps hormonal health become even more optimal.
The take-away? Don’t overlook the value of one foot in front of the other, figuratively and literally.
- Walking, especially slow walking in nature, has been proven to switch the nervous system from fight / flight / freeze to a more balanced rest / digest / recover.
- Slow walking also reduces cortisol, the stress hormone that tells the body to store fat in the belly area, which can lead to an array of health issues.
So, if it’s been awhile since you’ve moved regularly, start with slow walking.
Head out on a hike or simply walk around your yard or do repeats down your driveway to your mailbox and back (you’d find me doing this when my sons were babies).
If you’re a Valeo member or someone who also strength trains regularly…keep it up! Consider adding a few slow walks to your week…the benefits are endless and if we could choose the perfect compliment to your coached strength sessions and HIIT classes, it’d be slow walks. Heck, come in any time and walk on the self-powered treadmill in the gym if you’d like!
So, Becky, can you reach at least 4K steps most days this week?
Your hormones will thank you…and you’re worth it!
