Best Walking Shoes for Men (2026): Walk a Mile (Or Two) In Our Top Picks

Also earning a spot on our list of the best Altra running shoes, the Experience Forms work great for everything from speed work to slow-paced walks. With moderate cushioning, a low heel-to-toe drop, and GuideRail™ technology for pronation support, they have all the design elements we look for in a supportive pair of walking shoes. GGR Senior Staff Writer Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC, CSCS, loves these comfortable kicks, noting that they worked brilliantly for a multi-day music festival where he was on his feet nearly non-stop from sunset to sunrise. 

Stability: 5/5

Construction/Durability: 5/5

Cushion: 4/5

Why We Like the Altra Experience Form

The Experience Forms stand out in two critical areas that any user will appreciate: versatility and stability. Weighing just 9.6 ounces, they’re light enough to wear for extended periods without feeling like your feet are anchored down. However, they’re also plush enough to support long walks, too. 

“I love that these shoes are built for both slow- and faced-past activities,” Stephen says, rating the versatility a 4 out of 5. “They kept my feet feeling as best as they could after 72 hours of dancing, walking, and standing on my feet, but they also feel great when I go for a run at home.” 

An ideal pick for a daily trainer, the Experience Forms earned a perfect stability score. That stems from Altra’s patented pronation support, which can help prevent your ankle and foot from rolling inward. 

“These have GuideRail™ technology, encouraging natural foot placement with gentle guidance for a stable run,” he says.

Another reason these shoes earned a perfect construction and durability score is the wide toe box. That feature proved particularly helpful for Stephen, who has bunions on the outside of his feet that can easily get irritated in tighter-fitting shoes. 

“Unlike my narrow Nike Metcons, I have plenty of room in the toe box,” he explains. “Instead of feeling cramped and crowded, my feet feel free and able to splay naturally.” 

What We Didn’t Like About the Altra Experience Form

Although the Forms work great for most cardio activities, Stephen says they wouldn’t be his top pick for heavy strength training. 

“If you’re walking, running, or even doing some functional fitness, the Forms should keep you well-supported,” he explains. “However, I prefer a flat shoe for back squats, deadlifts, and traditional barbell-based compound movements.” 

Featuring a 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, expect a slightly forward-leaning stride in the Experience Forms. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it might take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to a higher heel-to-toe drop(or a zero-drop shoe). For context, the average walking shoe has a 7.7-millimeter drop. 

“The low drop is definitely a good starting point if you haven’t walked or ran in zero-drop shoes before,” Stephen explains. “It all comes down to a matter of personal preference.” 

On that note, if you want maximum stability, a zero-drop platform may work better. In that case, the Altra Provision 8 is a great alternative that offers a wide toe box, secure midfoot, and zero-drop sole. 

Testing Breakdown

The Altra Experience Form earned perfect scores in four categories, including price and value. Here’s a complete scoring breakdown:

Vs. The Average

The Altra Experience Form is priced right on par with the average walking shoe. The most noticeable difference is the lower heel-to-toe drop. 

If maximum comfort is your top priority, the Nike Vomero Plus stands out as our pick for the best cushioned walking shoe for men. Packed with plush ZoomX foam and built with a 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, it delivers a soft, protective ride that’s well-suited for long walks, all-day wear, and leisurely miles. GGR Editor Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, gave the Vomero Plus a near-perfect 4.5-out-of-5 rating for comfort after extensive testing.

Appearance & Design: 4.5/5

Adjustments & Comfort: 4.5/5

Value: 3/5

Why We Like the Nike Vomero Plus

If you’re a fan of the Swoosh, you know Nike makes some of the best-looking shoes on the market. Fittingly, the Vomero Plus earned a 4.5 out of 5 appearance and design score. 

“I have the White/Volt/Barley Volt/Black colorway and they’re a very clean look that matches my style,” GGR Editor Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, told me. “I’ve always been a fan of Nike aesthetics and feel their running shoes often blend best in non-training situations.” 

Available in 18 colorways ranging from minimalist designs to more eye-popping options (and the ability to customize your own design), these shoes don’t just look the part. Most importantly, they’re built with performance in mind. Ben gave dual 4-out-of-5 ratings for construction and durability and performance and stability. He particularly appreciated the soft engineered mesh upper that gives the Vomero Plus a comfortable overlay that’s still structured enough for regular training. 

“I’m more of a neutral gait or even supinate at times, but I didn’t have any issues with instability here,” Ben told me. “The ZoomX foam provides a good cradle and I feel the upper has enough structure to keep me in-check.” 

What We Didn’t Like About the Nike Vomero Plus

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. At $180, the Vomero Plus is one of the most expensive pairs we’ve tested. That high price tag can be attributed to the commercial power of the Nike brand. 

“I do think these look great and they’re plenty comfortable, but for regular training needs or those that aren’t fully invested in switching up paces for different training goals, I feel there are more suitable options on the market,” Ben says. 

Earning a 3 out of 5 for value, the Vomero Plus aren’t exactly the most versatile shoe, either.  While we recommend them for long-distance walks, runs, or recovery days, we wouldn’t recommend them for weightlifting or other types of training. As a result, we docked a few points off the versatility, settling on a 3 out of 5.

“The 9.6-ounce weight is not conducive to sprint intervals, and I’m always hesitant to recommend a high stack height for treadmill running,” Ben told me. “The Vomero Plus has too much of a pillow-like effect underfoot to warrant strength training wear, too.”

Looking for something that works well for more than just running and walking? Check out the NOBULL ALLDAY Ripstop, which earned a 4-out-of-5 versatility rating from our team.

Testing Breakdown

Although the Nike Vomero Plus fared well in most categories, it earned average scores for versatility and value. Here’s a complete scoring breakdown:

Vs. The Average

The Nike Vomero Plus are more expensive than the average walking shoe by nearly $40. The biggest design difference is the steeper heel-to-toe drop, which can take some time for runners and walkers who are used to lower-drop shoes to adjust to.

According to GGR expert contributor Chistopher Mohr, PhD, RD, “People with flat feet should look for shoes that offer stability and motion control to prevent overpronation.” If you fall into the flat-foot camp, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 can provide the structural support you and your non-existent arches need. With a 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop and a blend of soft and dynamic cushioning, these shoes earned a near-perfect 4.5-out-of-5 score for stability and performance.

Value: 4.5/5

Stability & Performance: 4.5/5

Appearance & Design: 3.5/5

Why We Like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

The best stability running shoes can help counteract overpronation¹ (a common problem where your foot rolls inward excessively) by providing extra support and structure in the midsole and arch area. Even if you plan to mostly use the Adrenaline GTS 25s for walking, they have the design elements needed to take some of the burden off your arches if you have flat feet.

“I have flat feet and overpronate when I run,” our tester told me. “I’ve tried several other stability shoes over the years but keep coming back to the Brooks.”

The Adrenaline GTS 25s feature nitrogen-infused DNA Loft V3 cushioning in the heel and forefoot, and a mesh upper that “feels pretty breathable,” our tester told me, rating the construction and durability at 4 out of 5. “It feels like I have plenty of room in the toe box, but I go up half a size in these to account for my feet swelling a bit as I run.” 

For those concerned about adjustments and comfort, Brooks offers these shoes in four widths: Medium, Narrow, Wide, and Extra Wide. The GTS 25s also come in half sizes from 5 to 12, which gives you ample flexibility to find the right fit. As a result, we rate the adjustments and comfort at a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5.

“I use the heel lock lacing method, which I think also helps my foot feel pretty stable when I run in these,” our product tester told me. “In addition to wearing them for runs, I have also worn them all day running errands, and they’re pretty comfortable.” 

What We Didn’t Like About the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25

Although our tester enjoyed using the GTS 25s and believes both men and women will find them comfortable, the stock insoles left something to be desired.

“The few times I have tried to run in them with the included insoles, I definitely noticed some discomfort in my arches,” our tester told me. Ultimately, that forced our tester to replace the Brooks insoles with a different brand for better support. Luckily, the orthotic-friendly design means you shouldn’t have any trouble using your preferred insoles. 

Furthermore, although the GTS 25s earned a 4-out-of-5 versatility rating, our tester cautioned against using them for heavy strength training. 

“These might work for light lifting or bodyweight movements in the gym, and maybe even some upper body work, but I wouldn’t wear them for heavy squats or deadlifts,” our tester told me.

Shopping on a stricter budget? You can get a great bang for your buck by opting for the more wallet-friendly Adidas Duramo SL2.

Testing Breakdown

Here’s how the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25 performed across all categories. Other than appearance and design, these shoes earned at least a 4 out of 5 in every area we tested. 

Vs. The Average

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25s are essentially the same price as the average running shoe. They have a significantly higher heel-to-toe drop, though, making them well-suited for heel strikers or those with Achilles issues. One major plus about the GTS 25s is that Brooks gives you 90 days to evaluate whether you want to keep them. 

Research shows² plantar fasciitis occurs in about 10% of the general population, with roughly 83% of patients being active working adults between 25 and 65 years old. This painful condition can cause stabbing heel pain that can quickly derail your plans of going for a walk, run, or even just standing on your feet for a period of time.

If you’ve been dealing with this nagging issue, you need a walking shoe with a firm heel counter, cushioned midsole, and proper arch support. Luckily, the Saucony Guide 19s check those boxes, making them our top pick for men dealing with plantar fasciitis.     

Construction & Durability: 4/5

Stability & Performance: 4/5

Versatility: 3.5/5

Why We Like the Saucony Guide 19

Earning a rock-solid 4-out-of-5 rating for construction and durability, the Guide 19s are marketed as a support shoe thanks to Saucony’s CenterPath Technology, which are sidewalls that guide your foot for balanced support. 

“Because I overpronate and have had numerous issues with my feet and ankles over the years, I always wear a stability shoe when I run,” our product tester told me. “I don’t think these feel quite as supportive as my beloved Brooks Adrenaline GTS, but I felt better in them than I did in a pair of Asics GT-2000, which killed my feet.” 

At roughly $150, you get what you pay for from a build quality standpoint. The Guide 19s can withstand consistent use without suffering any significant wear and tear. 

“I’ve worn them to walk my dog for 2 miles, four to five days a week for about two months, and they still feel pretty good,” our tester told me. “There is no material breakdown outside of what I’d consider normal for the amount of time I’ve had them.” 

What We Didn’t Like About the Saucony Guide 19

Although the Guide 19s earned solid marks in most categories, they earned dual 3.5-out-of-5 marks for versatility and adjustments and comfort. 

“They’re good for running and walking and maybe some light weightlifting, but I wouldn’t do heavy squats or deadlifts in them,” our tester told me.

While that’s not a surprise for a running shoe, it’s still worth highlighting considering the cost. After all, some budget-conscious buyers may not have the financial wriggle room to spend $150 on a pair of kicks with somewhat limited versatility. 

Furthermore, although the Guide 19s are comfortable, they don’t have multiple adjustment mechanisms like many other models on this list.

“There are no adjustments other than laces, and I like to do the heel lock lacing method for a little extra support around my ankles,” our tester told me. “But they are comfortable, and I’ve had no problem wearing them for several hours at a time when I’ve been out running errands.”

Because Saucony only accepts returns on unworn shoes within 30 days, you may hesitate to spend $150 without being able to fully test them. If that strict policy raises some uncertainty, the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25s come with a generous 90-day return policy. 

Testing Breakdown

Here’s a complete scoring breakdown for the Saucony Guide 19s based on our shoe testing methodology: 

Vs. The Average

The Saucony Guide 19s are more expensive than the average walking shoe, but not by much. Although their 6-millimeter heel-to-toe drop is slightly lower than average, the combination of PWRRUN cushioning and Saucony’s CenterPath stability technology provides the support and guidance walkers with plantar fasciitis will appreciate.

GGR Senior Staff Writer Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, considers himself a bit of a sneakerhead, so he was excited to see if the budget-oriented Adidas Duramo SL2s lived up to our standards.  Luckily, these shoes checked most of the boxes we look for, especially for value, construction, and durability. So, if you’re the type of person who likes stretching your dollar on budget home gym equipment, you’ll likely appreciate the bang-for-your-buck performance the Duramo SL2s deliver.

Price & Value: 4.5/5

Construction & Durability: 4/5

Appearance & Design: 4/5

Why We Like the Adidas Duramo SL2

Right off the bat: You can’t beat the price. 

Listed for $70, you can routinely find the SL2s on sale for a fraction of that amount. 

“I paid $38 for mine, directly from Adidas, and they’re often $50 or less  on Amazon,” Matt told me, rating the value at a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5. “They’re not my favorite running shoe compared to HOKAs or Brooks, but at this price, I think they’re well worth it.” 

Earning a solid 4-out-of-5 stability and performance score, the Duramo SL2s feature a firm sole that results in an extremely stable platform. 

“The durable, thick rubber sole almost has a rocker design, so it feels like your foot is rolling forward,” Matt explains. “I only docked a point because they feel a little heavy, and I’d prefer lighter materials in a running shoe, but I feel like they would last a long time without any issues.” 

As a final note, Matt appreciates the clean aesthetic, giving a 4-out-of-5 rating for design and appearance.

“Like most other Adidas running shoes, they have a clean, simple design that I really like, with the three stripes prominently displayed on the side of each shoe,” he says. “Some may prefer a more subtle appearance, but I really like the look of these.”

What We Didn’t Like About the Adidas Duramo SL2

While you get great value with the SL2s, you don’t get great versatility. Matt rated them a 3.5 out of 5 in this category.

“I’d use these for short runs, or short-to-medium walks, but not much else,” he explains. “The heel and slightly curved design are too high for stability during strength training, and even Adidas says they’re not meant for longer runs, probably due to the weight of the shoe.” 

Unlike the higher-priced options on this list, the SL2s didn’t score particularly high for adjustments and comfort. In fact, they earned the lowest score (3 out of 5) out of all the shoes that made the cut. 

“They’re pretty comfortable, but I wouldn’t wear them all day long,” Matt says. “The sole is more supportive than cushioned in my opinion, so while they’re great for running, I’d prefer something a bit more comfy if I was going to be out and about all day running errands.”

If you can stretch your budget further, the Nike Vomero Plus scored much higher for comfort, earning a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 in this key category. However, be prepared to pay more than double the price of the SL2s. 

Testing Breakdown

The Adidas Duramo SL2 fared well based on our testing methodology. Here’s a full scoring breakdown: 

Vs. The Average

The Adidas Duramo SL2 are less than half the price of the average walking shoe, making them an ideal choice if you’re looking for a low-cost investment in your health and wellness. However, the higher heel-to-toe drop limits their versatility. 

If you and your joints are tired of constantly pounding the pavement, investing in a pair of the best trail running shoes can pave the way for a more scenic (and forgiving) experience. Studies show³ trail running can enhance neuromuscular coordination, cardiovascular endurance, and joint stability compared to traditional road running. So, if you’re an all-terrain type of man (or woman), we recommend the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4, which earned one of the highest overall scores (4.8 out of 5) of any shoe that’s gone through our extensive testing process.

Versatility: 4/5

Construction/Durability: 5/5

Appearance & Design: 5/5

Why We Like the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4

Not only do the Ultraventure 4s perform like a race shoe, but they’re also incredibly comfortable. In fact, they earned a perfect score for adjustments and comfort. 

“I feel incredibly stable in these,” our expert product tester told me. “They have a wide but locked-in toe box and extra lacing. The midsole has enough give during each footstrike to feel comfortable, but enough support that you’re not overpronating.” 

Designed for transitioning seamlessly from hard-packed dirt to paved paths, the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4s are versatile enough for both everyday walks and light trail outings. While we wouldn’t recommend them for powerlifting workouts or other types of strength training, we still rated them a 4 out of 5 for versatility because you can use them for multiple types of terrain and at different paces. 

Finally, we were highly impressed by their durability—a key area of strength given their intended use.

“I really can’t say enough about how wonderfully sticky and grippy this outsole is,” our tester says. “It’s a Vibram outsole, a brand that has a reputation for making outsoles with great traction and grip.”

What We Didn’t Like About the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4

The Experience Form is one of Altra’s low-drop—not zero-drop—shoes. They feature a 4-millimeter heel-to-toe drop, which creates a slightly forward-striding feel. This isn’t a bad thing (Stephen rates the midsole with 4 out of 5 points) but he points out that a low drop is better for those who haven’t run in zero-drop shoes before. 

If you want maximum stability, a zero-drop platform may work better. Additionally, Altra’s GuideRail™ system may be overkill for those who supinate or experience a more neutral running gait.

If you’re in the market for a trail running shoe, you could also consider the Altra Lone Peak 9. They feature a roomy toe box, zero-drop sole with soft midsole cushioning, and a slightly more affordable price tag.  

Testing Breakdown

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4 earned one of the highest overall scores of any pair of shoes we’ve tested. The only area where it lost a point was versatility, which shouldn’t be a surprise since these are designed for trail running.

Vs. The Average

The Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4s are more expensive than the average walking shoe by roughly $12. However, they’re ultra-durable, making them a great long-term investment for those looking to hit the trails. 

To no surprise, one of our favorite gym shoes for men comes from a brand that’s quickly become a force in the fitness industry. Because the NOBULL ALLDAY Ripstops function well for treadmill walking workouts, weightlifting sessions, and even cross-training, they earn the nod as the most versatile walking shoe for men. So, if you’re looking for one shoe that can rule them all, this is a great option that can be worn all day long. 

Construction & Durability: 4/5

Stability & Performance: 4/5

Versatility: 4/5

Why We Like the NOBULL ALLDAY Ripstop

When you’re pressed for time, the last thing you want to do is rummage through your gym bag to find a pair of shoes that fits your activity of choice. With the ALLDAY Ripstops, however, you can confidently lace them up in the morning knowing that you can keep them on for the remainder of the day and take on any challenge thrown your way.

Earning a near-perfect rating (4.5 out of 5) for appearance and design, these NOBULL shoes come in a variety of colorways to match your aesthetic. 

“I love the look of these,” our expert product tester told me. “They have a ton of colors and patterns available, so I feel like almost anyone can find one they like. Obviously, the appearance of anything is super subjective, but I’m a big fan—otherwise, I wouldn’t have spent my own money on them.”

Most importantly, the ALLDAY Ripstops aren’t just aesthetically appealing. They’re also quite comfortable. 

“They are rather lightweight, which I appreciate, and the heel-to-toe drop is 10 millimeters,” our tester explains. “The material seems durable, and the back of the shoe on my right foot has held up well to my ankle brace rubbing while I run.” 

What We Didn’t Like About the NOBULL ALLDAY Ripstop

Our main callout with the ALLDAY Ripstops shoes is that they’re not specifically designed for one purpose. As an all-day wear shoe, they work well for a variety of activities, but they aren’t necessarily the best in any one category. 

For example, the 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop lends itself well to walking, treadmill sessions, and everyday wear, but it’s less suited for heavy strength training, where a zero-drop shoe allows you to keep your feet flatter and more stable during exercises like squats and deadlifts.

“I prefer a flat shoe like my Nike Metcons or a traditional Chuck Taylor when I’m doing squats, deadlifts, cleans, and other barbell exercises,” says GGR Senior Staff Writer Stephen Sheehan. 

Furthermore, the high price point results in just an average value score of 3 out of 5. 

“They cost around $150 and probably will last you a year at the most, unless you’re just wearing them casually versus working out in them,” our tester says.

Check out the Reebok Nano Gym Shoes if you value versatility. These cross-trainers are designed for running, weight training, and functional fitness activities. 

Testing Breakdown

The NOBULL ALLDAY Ripstop shoes mostly earned 4s across the board. In fact, the only category in which it failed to hit that threshold was price and value, as the $150 price point may be too steep for some buyers.

Vs. The Average

The ALLDAY Ripstop shoes are slightly more expensive than the average walking shoe, but not significantly so. Their 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop should feel familiar to most walkers, especially if you’re used to wearing conventional athletic shoes.

Over the years, we’ve tested dozens of shoes from many of the industry’s top brands, including HOKA, Brooks, Nike, ASICS, and lesser-known names like NOBULL and On. Whenever a company claimed its shoes offered a standout feature or unique performance benefit, we made it a point to put those claims to the test ourselves.

Our in-depth testing process takes a look at everything from the surface-level appearance to the deeper design elements that affect a shoe’s stability and performance. Here’s a thorough breakdown of each category we assess for walking shoes. 

Appearance and Design

Style matters, even for performance-focused footwear. While appearance is ultimately a matter of personal preference, we evaluate each shoe based on its overall design and available colorways. We also consider whether brands offer the same range of options for women, since that’s not always the case.

A 3-out-of-5 score reflects shoes that look perfectly fine for workouts but aren’t likely to become an everyday wardrobe staple. Models that mesh just as easily with casual outfits as they do with athletic apparel earn higher marks in this category.

Construction and Durability

Walking shoes should be built to handle major mileage without tearing, fraying, or breaking down prematurely. We assess the quality of the materials and construction, paying close attention to factors like the upper’s durability and breathability, the outsole’s traction and rubber coverage, and the midsole’s ability to maintain its cushioning over time.

We award a 3 out of 5 if a shoe is durable enough for regular walks but may show wear sooner than premium models. Higher scores go to shoes made with high-quality materials that continue to provide comfort, support, and reliable performance after months of daily walks, running errands, and general use. We also appreciate models that are machine washable for hassle-free cleaning.

Stability and Performance

A stable walking shoe helps keep your foot secure from the moment your heel strikes the ground to when you push off through the toe area. We evaluate factors like the firmness of the midsole, the structure of the heel counter, and any specific support features designed to reduce excess foot movement. The combination of these key elements contributes to a more confident, comfortable stride.

A 3-out-of-5 rating indicates dependable stability for most walkers, though the shoe may fall short in one aspect, such as heel security or arch support. Higher-rated models provide a more planted feel and the type of support that lets you walk for hours with zero stability concerns. 

Versatility

Can you use these shoes for other purposes, such as CrossFit exercises, HIIT workouts, or weight training? Can you wear them around town for everyday use, or are they strictly road running shoes? Can they work well as a pair of recovery shoes?

To earn a 3 out of 5, you can wear the kicks for a few other activities, but they may not function optimally in all cases. Shoes that earn a 5-star versatility rating can be worn for nearly any activity.

Adjustments and Comfort

Does the shoe run true to size? Some fit snugly, requiring you to order up a half size or more. Additionally, what type of adjustment mechanisms are there, and how well do they allow you to achieve a secure, comfortable fit? 

To earn a 3 out of 5, the shoe fits comfortably and true to size, has traditional laces, and is available in whole and half sizes. We give higher scores if the shoe fits comfortably for longer periods of time, is offered in different widths, and has more adjustment options beyond standard laces, such as internal or Velcro straps.

Price and Value 

Walking shoes vary in price based on their design, materials, and intended purpose. While premium models with advanced cushioning or stability features tend to cost more, you can generally expect to spend between $100-$150 for a high-quality pair that delivers dependable comfort and support.

A shoe earns a 3 out of 5 for value if its price aligns with its performance and construction, even if there are more cost-effective alternatives available. We reserve the highest ratings for shoes that combine a competitive price with excellent comfort, durability, and long-term performance, giving you the most value over hundreds of miles.

Customer Experience

What type of warranty and return policies does the shoe brand offer? Can you easily get in touch with customer service to address any shipping issues or product defects? 

To earn a 3 out of 5, the company offers at least a 30-day return policy, has multiple contact options, and responds to inquiries in a reasonable amount of time. We award a perfect score to brands that are super responsive, have an easy ordering process, and offer a lengthier trial period or return policy than the standard 30-day mark.

Customer Reviews

We care about what customers have to say about their experience with a specific shoe. In addition to checking Amazon and other major retailers, we also look at each brand’s website for its overall customer rating. We then read customer reviews to identify consistent themes, both positive and negative.

Investing in a pair of high-quality walking shoes is a smart decision on multiple fronts. Here’s how (and why) you can put your new pair of kicks to good use. 

Improved Cardiovascular Health

Often overlooked and underappreciated as a legitimate form of exercise, walking is one of the best ways to improve your cardiovascular health. Whether that’s on a treadmill, on the track, or on the trails, you should find a way to incorporate this activity into your fitness routine. 

“Treadmills give beginners and athletes an efficient way to complete an aerobic activity,” says Rachel MacPherson, certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. “People new to exercise can get their cardio in by walking or jogging, while runners with a bit more experience can challenge themselves by cranking up the speed and incline.” 

RELATED: Incline Treadmill Workouts

Of course, it’s important to balance your cardio efforts with resistance training for a well-rounded approach. 

“Cardio exercises like running, cycling, or swimming are excellent for improving cardiovascular health, while strength training is great for building muscle mass, which is often called the organ of longevity,” says GGR expert contributor Chris Mohr, PhD, RD. 

A Boost for Your Mental Health

Everyone knows exercise is imperative for maintaining your physical well-being. However, even a low-intensity, low-impact activity like walking can be highly beneficial not just for your body but also your brain.

“Low-intensity activities still encourage the release of endorphins and promote relaxation for better sleep, which improves overall mood,” explains Mohr. “However, with whatever exercise you decide to indulge in, try to be consistent, as it can have positive effects on mental health over time.” 

RELATED: Exercise And Mental Health

Walking Can Help You Achieve Your Weight-Loss Goals

If you’re trying to trim some fat off your frame, penciling more walks into your routine can be a great way to support your weight-loss efforts. Ramping up the pace, going at an incline, or wearing a weighted vest can increase your total energy expenditure and provide a far greater challenge than simply walking on a flat surface at a casual pace. 

Of course, it’s important to remember that cardiovascular exercise is just part of the equation if you’re trying to drop a few pounds.

“Combine aerobic exercises like walking or cycling with strength training like lifting weights to burn calories and build muscle,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. “This mix also boosts your metabolism and supports long-term weight loss.”

RELATED: Walking for Weight Loss