The human body is capable of adjusting itself to the physical demands of any situation. This means that the body can increase or decrease its rate of metabolism depending on how much energy is needed at any given time. The rate of respiration and the heart rate also change as per the requirements of the body.


These changes naturally affect the rate at which nutrition is used in the body. Therefore, a resting person will break down a small quantity of food for energy during any given time period. The heart rate and respiration rate will also be subdued when the person is at rest.


These are conditions under which it may not be possible for the person to use all the nutrition that is being introduced into the system. This could also lead to weight gain.

Exercise is the process of using energy without any other aim except to burn energy. It is time spent by demanding physical effort from the body so that the body begins to work hard. There are many different ways of exercising which can be chosen based on the requirements of the individual. A good exercise regime combines light, moderate and heavy exercise loads. Walking for exercise is one of the best ways in which a person can apply light to moderate loads on his or her body. The benefits of walking for exercise are endless. It provides some time for an individual to relax the mind while at the same time working the body out. Walks could be planned to be slow or fast depending on the need of the individual. The only equipment required for walking is a good pair of shoes. One also needs an area free of vehicular traffic to effectively exercise by walking. Walking exercises the muscles of the legs and the joints in the ankles, knees and hip. It also provides some amount of exercise for the arms and shoulder joints while mildly exercising the muscles in the torso. The heart and lungs are exercised as well. The benefits of walking are most felt when a person spends a good amount of time walking. This means that walking should be continued for a few minutes after the individual starts feeling tired. This provides the extra exercise necessary for the body. One can also combine walking for exercise and pleasure by doing so at a scenic location where the walk can be enjoyed.