Walking for Exercise
How much weight will you lose? That depends on how long you walk, how fast you walk and how many days of the week you do it. I can say that if you’ll walk 1-2 miles at a time, three days a week, you will see very positive results in a quick amount of time.
While there is no question that putting down that remote and walking for exercise is great for your overall health, there are some things you should look for when first starting out. Here’s a quick checklist:
Be dedicated to sticking with a plan. Please don’t make the mistake of thinking you can walk a mile once a week and see any tangible results. It won’t happen. Set a goal of walking on specified days and stick to it. After 2 weeks it will become routine.
Have a regular route for your walk, but also change up once in a while and go somewhere different. Familiarity can often make you get bored. By changing your route every once in a while you’ll keep things fun.
Buy a good pair of shoes and socks. This is huge. You must be comfortable when walking for exercise. Don’t skimp and wear a pair of old worn out tennis shoes or thread bare socks. Be good to your feet and they will be good to you.
Be sure you know how far you have walked. A pedometer is good, or you can drive the same route in a car and track the distance. You want to keep track of how far you’re walking.
If you can, walk with someone else. A spouse or friend will help you both stay motivated. It’s also a great way to talk with each other and reduce stress.
Those tips can really help you in achieving your weight loss and fitness goals, but what should you not do in any walking for exercise routine? Here are 3 things you should avoid:
1. Wild and unrealistic goals. Don’t expect miracles to happen in two weeks. Be willing to give this time. Yes, you could lose 5 pounds in two weeks by walking for exercise and a sensible diet, but don’t expect to lose 20 pounds and quit if you don’t. Stick with it and I can promise you that you will see great results.
2. Please don’t overdo it. It can be easy to try and do to much your first time. Then, when your body is sore and complaining to you, it’s easy to just quit. Don’t let this happen to you. Start off slowly and work up to more distances and at a faster pace. It needn’t be a marathon.
3. Use common sense when walking. Don’t walk after dark. Always keep your eyes open to what is going on around you. Safety has to be a priority. Depending on where you live you may want to have a whistle or mace with you. I know that sounds extreme, but you should be prepared anyway.
Walking for exercise can not only be relaxing and enjoyable, but it can be so beneficial to your entire body. I would encourage everyone to get started and begin walking your way to a more healthy you.
