Every alternate day when we set out for our morning walk, our minds invariably race to the times when walking was not just an exercise but very much an integral part of life. Right from attending schools and colleges to going to workplace and shops, people mostly depended on public transportation if walking the distance was out of the question. Those were the days when agriculture was the major occupation and almost all industries focused on producing agriculture related products. Horse and bullocks drawn carriages were commonly used. Fleeing cars on the streets were not a very common sight during the times when owning cycles itself was considered precious.
The scenario is totally different today. According to a report, the number of registered vehicles in India rose from 3 lakhs in 1951 to 2300 lakhs in 2016. It goes to show that walking is no more an inseparable part of lifestyle. Naturally so, modernization has led to expansion of cities and hence, dependence on wheels for travel is quite inevitable.
Here is a picture of Chennai Central Station in 1979. You can spot horse drawn carriages, which were commonly used those days for transportation.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/MadrasTrends/photos/a.366781116992798/366781276992782/?type=3&theater
Visit this link to view a collection of old Chennai photos that transport you to the past,
This is Netaji Road in 1961. People walking their way to work exceed the number of private vehicles.
Source: https://www.cntraveller.in/story/madras-day-celebrating-city-14-pictures/
Chennai in 2020
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/traffic-congestion-near-gemini-flyover/article30478688.ece
Physical labor or exertion greatly reduced when wheels started replacing legs on the streets. This lead to various health conditions including obesity. This was precisely when a good number of population took on to walking as an exercise.
Chennai Anna Nagar in 1972.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anna_Nagar
Beach Road, Chennai in 2020:
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-residents-flout-lockdown-norms-throng-beaches/article31777212.ece
Benefits of Walking
Various studies have proved the benefits of exercising. Still, what could be a better proof than your own experience? Still, some proven benefits for you to check:
- Strengthens the heart and improves heart function
- Supports lung health and stimulates lung function
- Helps to reduce excess weight
- Reduces tummy fat
- It boosts immunity.
- Improves blood circulation
- Regular practice of the pose improves digestion
- Regulates high blood pressure
- Controls blood glucose levels
- Promotes longevity
- Strengthens bones and joints
- Strengthens legs; strengthens leg muscles
- Energizes the whole body
- Study proves walking improves sleep latency, sleeping hours and sleep quality.
- According to a study, walking outdoors improves creativity.
- It relieves stress and energizes the mind
It is generally recommended to walk for 30 minutes to one hour for five to six days a week. Those who are involved in other physical exercises can walk for 30 minutes to one hour for three days a week.
Rama Thamizharasu
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