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Try Walking Your Way To Fitness
Perhaps you find yourself sitting more than you used to and your backside has gotten a little bigger, or maybe you’ve noticed that lately you’re getting winded just walking up a few steps. You’ve noticed that you’re not as physically fit as you used to be and it’s time to do something about it, but what should you do?
For most people who are not in shape but want, or need, to get in shape, walking is the way to go. Sure, it’s not as glamorous as running a marathon or entering a body building contest, but walking can get you fit.
* Start off with getting the okay from your doctor to start a walking program. Your physician will probably give you an exam and maybe do an EKG to determine that you’re healthy, and then give you his blessing. This will give you peace of mind when you start walking and notice your heart is thumping up a storm.
* Before you take a single step, get a good pair of shoes that are made for walking. Sporting good stores have shoes for every activity – pick a walking shoe that feels good on your feet. These shoes will give you the support you need.
* Dress in layers and make sure your clothes are comfortable. If you wear layers, you can take off items and put them on again depending on what the weather is doing and how much you’re exerting yourself.
* Start gradually. Rome wasn’t built in a day; you don’t have to walk miles and miles your first time out. A comfortable walking speed and shorter distance to start will keep you from quitting your walking program before you’ve really begun.
* Add variety when you’re ready – incorporate some hills, swing your arms, and or carry hand weights. This will not only keep you interested but shorten your route to becoming physically fit. Get a step counter and attach it to your pants. This little low-tech gadget doesn’t lie – it will tell you exactly how many steps you’ve taken each day. Maybe you’ve seen people walking with ski poles? It’s a great idea if your walking terrain is uneven or you need a little extra support. If the weather is inclement, find a mall to walk in or use a treadmill at a gym. Don’t let the weather be an excuse.
* Walk with a companion and keep up a lively conversation. Just keep an eye on your walking speed because it seems the better the conversation, the slower the walking gets. If you don’t have someone to walk with, consider loading some good walking music on an iPod or have a small portable CD player to keep you company. If you find you’re out of shape, walking may be the perfect way for you to get back into being physically fit again. Not only is walking good for your physical health, it can be fun and help you feel good about yourself.
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