Exercising is important for overall health. And it doesn’t need to be complicated! Simply walking for 30 minutes a day can provide lots of benefits for people of all ages. Walking can help ward off heart disease, lower blood pressure, strengthen bones and muscles, prevent weight gain and even boost your mood.

If you haven’t been walking regularly, start slowly and gradually increase the duration and pace of the walks. Be sure to wear comfortable socks and shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Inclement weather? Head indoors to a local shopping mall to get your steps in.

Mix it up! Make the walks interesting by going to different places such as parks, trails, beaches and boardwalks. Consider teaming up with a walking buddy. This can help hold you accountable and provide some social time. If you walk alone, listening to music or an interesting podcast can make the time more enjoyable (just be sure to have the volume low enough so that you are aware of your surroundings).

Get on the path to better health! Walking is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints. It requires no special equipment and is easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

photo credit: bigstockphoto.com/ZakharovaNatasha