Walk: Rediscover the Most Natural Way to Boost Your Health and Longevity—One Step at a Time

This enlightening debut guide from chiropractor Conley and physical therapist McDowell extols the benefits of walking. Arguing that movement is a physiological necessity akin to breathing and sleeping, they demonstrate how walking helps people age better and ward off illnesses. Though modern conveniences, such as cars, remote work, and digital communications, have reduced the need for humans to walk, the authors encourage readers to view the activity as a daily vitamin, noting that an effective “dose” is between 3,500 and 8,500 steps per day. Walking improves mental health, enables more restful sleep, and protects bones against fracture. Sedentary lifestyles, however, lead to obesity, poor cardiovascular health, and other ills. Conley and McDowell outline advice for improving walking efficiency (an upright posture reduces strain on joints), incorporating walking into one’s schedule (start small and invite friends to join), and navigating foot pain (the culprit may be bad shoes). They conclude with weekly programs for increasing step counts, with plans for beginners, consistent movers, and avid walkers. Not overly clinical, this is packed with practical advice, including ideas for “movement snacks,” or short bursts of activity readers can fold into their daily routines, as well as uplifting stories of patients who worked through foot and joint pain. Readers will be motivated and equipped to make walking a regular habit. (May)