​Many choose various routes to reach their goal of optimal fitness; however, one of the best tried and true ways to achieve fitness is something we all do every day, and that is a walk! Walking is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to stay physically fit. Walking is also one of the most versatile types of exercise and can be done indoors or outdoors; you can create the intensity of your walking based on your individual goals and abilities. No matter if you are walking to lose weight or walking to exercise, once you have established a good walking routine, you will reap many benefits from it. Consistent walking can prevent a host of health concerns such as heart disease.
There are several actions you need to take before beginning a walking program, and that is to first check with your doctor, especially if you have recently been injured or if you have been suffering from a chronic medical condition. Then, buy a good pair of shoes. Shoes should comfortably fit when you try them on, without any pinching or pressure. When you try them on, wear the kind of socks you will wear when you purchase your shoes and if you wear socks, purchase a larger-sized shoe than what you usually wear.
Before walking, do some stretching exercises. As you walk, pay attention to your breathing. Walk at a challenging pace; however, be careful not to walk too fast. Also, maintain good posture as you walk. Your back should be straight, your head up and your abdomen flat. Even, think about getting a pedometer. That will help track the distance you walk, and it can keep you motivated with your walking. As you walk along, carry water with you; especially if you are walking long distances or walking in warm weather. Wearing a hat and putting on sunscreen during warm summer months, is also a good idea.
Also, to add a little something to your walking, walk in a hilly area where you have more of a challenge and different scenery; different scenery and the mountainous regions will keep you motivated with your walking. Walking with a buddy also helps because it adds support and is a great way to communicate as you walk.
Brisk walking is beneficial in many ways; it can maintain a healthy weight, prevent various health concerns such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and blood pressure, add strength to your bones and muscles, enhance your mood and improve your balance and coordination. Other benefits of walking are enjoying a longer life, better sleep, a slower mental decline, and a lower risk of getting Alzheimer’s.
To conclude, many choose various ways and means to reach their goal of fitness; however, one of the best tried and true ways to achieve fitness is to walk! Walking is easy; you can walk inside a mall, your home or outside. With the many health benefits of walking, doesn’t it make sense to give it a try?!