One Wednesday morning, I was setting out on my journey to my 8:30 class, when I noticed a crowd of people waiting for the shuttle bus to main campus.

C’mon guys, I thought. It’s only a five-minute walk.

So, as I strolled past these early-morning bums, I got to thinking about how #blessed I am to be the spry speed walker that I am. Keep in mind, two minutes later the shuttle bus flew by me on the side of the road. Well, anyways, there are definitely perks to being a speed walker.

To state the obvious, you get places faster. According to my calculations, we’re talking at least a 20% increase in speed and decrease in travel time. That’s right, really maximizing efficiency folks. You may say I’m an innovating sensation, but really I’m just trying to make the world a better place! You’re welcome. And no, I am not in the engineering school, but maybe I should reconsider.

Something that may easily go unnoticed about speed walking is it makes you a more difficult target. You know what they say, fast moving objects are harder to prey on. Think of an elephant trying to catch a cheetah, not going to happen. You might not think this is relevant (at all), but hey, you never know when people are throwing water balloons, snowballs, or other objects. Now you are less likely to be the victim of these unfortunate incidents. You are, once again, welcome.

Another aspect of speed walking that might often go unnoticed is the intimidation factor. You may think you’re walking fast, but you just wait and see. It’s just a matter of time till I blow by you. Nothing establishes superiority better than speeding past someone and into the sunset.

Also, there is the potential to become an Olympic speed walker. C’mon, you could really make it in the speed walking world. We’re talking gold medals here. This could be your big break.

Lastly, you get to tell yourself you are getting good exercise. Running is bad for your knees! So don’t run anymore, EVER. Really your doctor wouldn’t want you to, I insist. But seriously, according to TESCO Living, speed walking:

1. Strengthens your heart
2. Lowers disease risk
3. Helps you lose weight
4. Prevents dementia
5. Tones muscles
6. Gives you energy
7. Boosts vitamin D
8. Makes you happy

To sum it up, why AREN’T you speed walking? Get out there and walk people!