10 Benefits of an Afternoon Walk (and the Gear You Need to Make It Even Better)

When I was little, there was nothing quite as exciting as hearing “Let’s go for a walk” after dinner. 

Looking back, I’m sure my mom wanted to tire us out before bed, and I definitely use that trick, but a pre-bed walk is so good for your kids ... and you too! 

After an emotionally-rough winter, we spent the spring and summer increasing our time spent together as a family and much of the that is time spent outside. We've gotten to the point where when I say "walk", my one-year-old daughter runs to get Barry (our Maltipoo) hooked up to his leash. So it's safe to say that we all love this habit.

Curious how an after-dinner walk can benefit you?

Benefits of an after-dinner walk 

Even if your little ones played outside during the day, there are still benefits to going on one more stroll after dinner.

Benefits of a late walk include:

1. A shorter sleep latency AKA it takes less time to fall asleep
2. Improved moods (yay!)
3. Improved digestion and regulated blood sugar levels
4. Reduced stress levels
5. Improvedimmune system
6. The opportunity to get out last minute energy before bed
7. A chance to soak in the fresh air
8. Increased bonding with your family
9. A chance to bond with your dog too
   
10. Improve heart health
    

This is just a short list of ways that walking can benefit you. Walking together as a family is something that benefits your physical, mental, and emotional health -- all while bonding!

Gear that makes your walk even better

So to be clear, you don't really need anything besides some good shoes for walking, but I've found these things make an after-dinner walk even better.

Stroller 
Once of the best parts about an after-dinner walk is that everyone in your family can participate. While your older kids can walk (or run), your toddler or baby may just sit back and relax in the stroller.

Even if your baby isn't walking, he still benefits from the fresh air, the company, and the sights/sounds of nature.

My one-year-old loves riding in the stroller; in fact, whenever we are in the garage, she points to her stroller as if to ask "Is it time yet for our walk?!"

If you're in the market for a new stroller,  check out the BOB Revolution Flex 2.0 Jogging Stroller.

Apple Watch 
If you're still working on losing baby weight (ahem... me), grab yourself a smart watch and log your calories from your walk.  I love my Apple watch, and you better believe, I open the "outdoor walk" each night to keep track of my progress.

Dog Gear
Our dog accompanies us on every walk, and because after-dinner walks can get dark (especially in the fall), it's a good idea to keep your dog safe with a reflective leash or harness.

What about you?

Do you go for walks as a family?

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