Walking moderately for 30-45 minutes before strength training acts as a gentle warm-up that improves blood flow, enhances joint flexibility, and mentally prepares you for exercise. It can increase stamina without affecting muscle gains, provided intensity is controlled and signs of fatigue are heeded.
Walking moderately for 30-45 minutes before strength training acts as a gentle warm-up that improves blood flow, enhances joint flexibility, and mentally prepares you for exercise. It can increase stamina without affecting muscle gains, provided intensity is controlled and signs of fatigue are heeded.
Newsletter Body:
For fitness enthusiasts wondering whether walking for 45 minutes daily before hitting the gym is beneficial, arthroscopy specialist Dr Parth Agrawal from KIMS Hospitals, Thane offers valuable insights. Walking pre-gym is more than just a casual stroll—it serves as an effective warm-up that primes the body for more strenuous strength training.
Dr Agrawal explains that walking enhances posture, softens muscle stiffness, and gently engages core muscles, which altogether promote joint lubrication and better muscle function during workouts. Unlike intense cardio like running or HIIT, moderate walking does not deplete muscle glycogen or hinder muscle growth, making it a safe choice for those aiming to build strength.
Key benefits highlighted include:
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Improved blood flow and oxygenation which prepares muscles for lifting and supports recovery
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Increased endurance and stamina indirectly boosting overall workout quality
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Mental readiness through a warm-up phase that helps focus for an organized training session
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Softening of stiffness and enhanced posture leading to reduced injury risk
The recommended approach is to maintain a moderate walking pace—fast enough to stimulate circulation but not tiring. About 30 to 45 minutes is ideal since faster or prolonged walking before lifting can leave you fatigued, reducing strength output.
Dr Agrawal also advises paying close attention to your body's signals. If you experience dizziness, pain, or excessive fatigue during the walk, it's best to pause or separate the walking and gym sessions. Proper hydration and supportive footwear are essential, as is incorporating dynamic stretches to further minimize injury.
In essence, a 45-minute walk before gym sessions is a brilliant way to warm up, increase endurance, and protect joints without sacrificing muscle gains. Done with sensible pacing and care, it can enhance both safety and effectiveness of your strength training routine.
Source:
Indian Express, KIMS Hospitals expert Dr Parth Agrawal