Boosts mobility after an illness or operation
and can be a good way to start building to more strenuous activities.
“So how do I get started?” You might ask. The good news is you can
start any time. There is no financial outlay, you don’t need any special
equipment and it’s absolutely free. Whether you are a couch potato, a desk
jockey or a full-on fitness junkie, walking is the one activity that everyone
at any fitness level can do.
Of course, if you want to see
results, you need to be consistent. That means making the commitment to walk a
few times a week. The recommended daily walking distance is 5 miles a day or
10,000 steps. That may seem like a tall order starting off but you can start at
your own pace and work up to that. Sure, it might be a chore forcing yourself
out the door in the beginning but once you get into the habit of walking
regularly, you will come to enjoy it and will soon be looking forward to it.
Here are some tips to help you get the most from your walking
regime:
Dress
comfortably. That means ditching the heels and wearing shoes that are
comfortable on your feet. Wear a waterproof jacket in case of showers but keep
it light so you don’t sweat too much. Make sure you have pockets to keep your
hands free because you will want to swing those arms when you walk to burn more
calories.
Keep it
brisk. Walking at a brisk pace means you will be working that bit
harder and getting your blood pumping. You won’t burn enough calories to lose
weight if you stroll. If you have trouble with this, take along a music player
and listen to some up-tempo music to help you keep a steady pace.
Watch your
step: A pedometer is invaluable in helping you keep tabs on how many
steps you have taken. Many phones come with this fantastic little app or can be
downloaded free. If you don’t have a smart phone, you can buy a pedometer very
cheaply in most sports and fitness stores. After a while, you will find
yourself trying to beat your record and pushing yourself further each time.
Take a
friend. Walking with a friend or family member will make the experience
double the fun. Instead of meeting your buddy in the coffee shop, switch the
venue to the local park and catch up on all the gossip as you walk. If you have
a four-legged friend give them some exercise too.
Stay
hydrated. You will get thirsty as you walk, especially in the summer
months. Take a bottle of water along with you and sip as you go. .
Stay safe. Always let someone know where you are going and how
long you will be away for. Don’t walk anywhere lonely.
Prioritise
your walking. Everyone needs a little ‘me time’ and your walks can be
invaluable when you need some time away from the demands of work and family.
Use this time to mentally tackle anything that’s on your mind. Exercise is a
great de-stresser and by the time you return home, you will feel much better.
Walking is one of the easiest and most effective ways to lose weight but as I said earlier, you need to be
consistent. That said, if you put in the work, you will see and feel the
benefits. This summer, make walking your go-to activity and see just what you
can achieve!