Exercise is important to our overall fitness and well-being as we age. Aging can cause mature women to experience decreased muscle tone, flexibility, and stamina. Exercise can help solve these problems. However, many women do not exercise because it is often difficult to go to the gym or they think that the only way to do it effectively is to hire a personal trainer.

But, one of the most powerful exercises for mature women is something that is often forgotten when it comes to exercise; for walk. It can be walked on at any time and does not require any special training or equipment. Plus, walking has these 5 amazing benefits for postmenopausal women.

• Strengthens bones and joints.

As women go through menopause, they often lose bone density. This loss of density can result in osteoporosis, a condition that makes bones brittle and brittle. In our middle age, our joints also suffer. After years of overuse, the joints can wear out and hurt. Walking increases the blood flow to the bones and joints and therefore increases the amount of oxygen and nutrients in these areas. The result is that bone density decreases and the joints receive more support.

• Lowers blood pressure.

Hypertension becomes a problem for many women after menopause. While blood pressure can often be controlled through the use of prescription medications, walking has been shown to be an additional way to lower blood pressure. Walking briskly increases circulation, strengthens the heart, and therefore lowers blood pressure.

• Makes you happier

One of the most common side effects of menopause in older women is depression and mood swings. This can be true even if these conditions were not a problem previously. Walking seems to help in this area by helping your body release endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that produce euphoria or a boost in mood.

• Increase your energy

As we age, our energy begins to wane. That easy two-mile jog you used to do every morning before work is now taking more and more out of you to do it. While you may not be able to do the run, you may be able to walk briskly. A brisk 30-minute walk can give you the energy to get through the rest of the day.

• Improve your immune function

Aging and menopause take their toll on our bodies. More specifically, they weaken our immune system. It is easier to catch colds, viruses, and other illnesses because our natural defenses are lowered. Studies have shown that walking, in its overall effect, improves our immune function and helps us fight disease. This is especially important if your end goal is longevity.

As you can see, walking has several benefits for mature postmenopausal women. It is an exercise that you can do, at your convenience or simply as part of your daily activities. One caveat, however, is that for maximum benefit, you need to walk quickly. You can start a vigorous walking program on your own or get support by walking with friends. However, if you decide to make brisk walking part of an exercise program, always check with your doctor first.