Increasing numbers of people are starting to realise the benefits of walking as a means of exercising. It’s easy to do – in fact you do it every day without even thinking about it. It’s a low impact workout that requires no special equipment, training or expertise. It’s suitable for a wide range of ages – which is probably one reason why it has such a low “drop out” rate. You can do it wherever you like and you can fit it into your daily schedule whenever it’s convenient for you.
If you’re trying to get in shape and shed a few pounds then it’s extremely effective. Watching the amount that you eat and drink is very important of course, but dieting alone is not a highly efficient way to lose weight. Combining an element of exercise with dietary control will get you better results – and faster. Obviously you will burn calories when you exercise, which is great, but regular exercise will also help to raise your metabolic rate – the speed at which you burn calories. This means that even when you’re not exercising – sitting at your computer, watching TV or listening to music for example – you will burn calories more rapidly which will promote further weight loss.
The health benefits which walking is capable of delivering are very impressive. It can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can help to reduce your blood pressure level. It can help to improve your cholesterol levels. It can help to reduce the risk of diabetes. It can even help to lower the risk of contracting certain types of cancer. It will give you more energy and leave you feeling less tired throughout the day. It will help you to sleep better at night. It is effective in fighting anxiety and depression. Recent research in the UK suggests that it might even be effective in fighting off Alzheimer’s disease.
That’s got to be enough motivation for you to consider including walking in your exercise program. As mentioned previously, you don’t need any special equipment. A good pair of comfortable shoes is all you need to get started.
One item of equipment that you might find useful – although you don’t strictly need it, especially not when you’re just starting out – is a pedometer. This will help you to record your progress and they can be set to display in terms of calories burned, number of steps taken or distance covered – whichever is most meaningful for you and helps to keep your motivation level high.
If you haven’t exercise for a while, or if you have any medical conditions, it’s a good idea to seek the advice of your doctor before you start walking (or any other new exercise program for that matter). It’s also worth remembering that, even although walking is a relatively low intensity exercise, it’s a good idea to stretch your muscles before setting off on your walk. Take your time and start off slowly – you can build up both in terms of speed and distance over time. Some gentle stretches when you have completed your walk are also a good idea. This will help you to avoid any strains and ensure that you achieve all the aforementioned health benefits in the most effective manner.
Discover how Fitflops exercise shoes can boost the effectiveness of your walking workout. Try using an Omron pedometer to track your progress and help you to stay motivated.