Here's How You Can Make The Most Out Of Your Walking Exercise

Are you on the verge of starting your fitness journey but you don't know where to start? If going to the gym stresses you out or if you think following a workout program is difficult then read on because we have good news for you!

The truth is you don’t have to dive into a complicated or intense workout regimen to jumpstart your active lifestyle. A simple solution is here in the form of walking.

The idea of walking for weight loss has been around for a while. And the good news is it’s for everyone. You can be young or old, male or female and you would still reap the same benefits from this workout.

It’s a simple and free workout that’s appropriate for all fitness levels. What’s more, you can do it anywhere so you have no excuse to not exercise. 

Walking has many health benefits including:

• Improving your cardiovascular and pulmonary fitness
• Reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke
• Improving your management of conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, joint stiffness, muscular pain, and diabetes
• Increasing your muscle strength and endurance
• Reducing body fat.

When walking as a form of exercise, it’s important to be mindful of your technique. Don’t just take one step after the other. You should also know how to properly execute the proper form of walking so you can maximize the benefits you get from it.

 

Remember to keep your head high, always look forward, and keep your neck, shoulders, and back relaxed.

Your arms should also swing freely while you keep your elbows slightly bent.

It’s also important to keep your abdominal muscles engaged by contracting them the whole time you are walking.

Finally, be sure to keep a steady pace and roll your foot from heel to toe.

While walking can be a simple exercise, you still have to remember a few things so you can stay safe while working out.

First, make sure that you have the right gear. Pick shoes that offer proper arch support and with flexible soles that absorb shock while you stride. Wear comfortable clothes as well that wick sweat away from your body so you stay dry at all times.

 

Second, choose your path carefully. Walking outdoors can be fun and exciting but you should avoid unsafe paths with cracked roads, potholes, or uneven turf. 

 

Third and finally, be sure to warm up and cool down. Don’t just start walking and suddenly stop. Make sure that your muscles have properly acclimated to the motion of walking.