For a workout to be considered effective, many of us mistakenly believe that we have to exert our body to its fullest potential during exercise. Unfortunately, this way of thinking eliminates a wide range of opportunities that help make exercise a lot more manageable, comfortable and fun!
Walking Your Way into Fitness
Walking is just one of the many types of exercise whose benefits often go overlooked. Plus – when you’re trying to manage your weight and health, ALL movement counts!
For example: regular, brisk walking can help you:
- Reach a healthier weight – This is true especially with incline and a quicker pace
- Improve Your Mental State – Walk to release endorphins, relieve stress and boost self-esteem
- Manage Hip and Joint Pain – This is a low-impact exercise that is generally easy on the body
- Lower Your Disease Risk – Walk to reduce or manage diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease
- Strengthen Your Muscles – Tone your leg and abdominal muscles, and even your arms if you pump them while you walk
Remember these Key Tips
Although this powerful exercise is simple and generally available to everyone, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
First, make sure that your walking course is in a safe area. You can choose to use a treadmill in your home or gym, or you may choose a neighborhood, park or other designated area.
Furthermore, walking does not come without physical risk. You must stretch properly before beginning your workout and pay special attention to your legs, back and abdominal region. Additionally, be sure to designated a “warm up” and “cool down” period to give your body the proper workout care it needs.
Finally, always hydrate! Proper fluid intake keeps you energized throughout the duration of your workout. And, if you’re one to sweat easy, hydration keeps your body in perfect balance.
For more on the benefits of walking, please CLICK HERE.
