"The groundwork of all happiness is health." - Leigh Hunt

5 Tips for Getting Started with a Walking Program

Photo: Ken Stock

Want to start with a straightforward and reasonably priced exercise plan? Don't neglect walking. Walking is usually secure for people of any age or fitness level and might easily be adjusted to a cushty pace. It doesn’t increase or increase your heart rate to dangerous levels. For an even bigger challenge, you’ll be able to add time, distance, or hills — or try adding high-intensity intervals or resistance bands.

Follow the following tips to get the most effective workout out of your walk:

1. Find a secure place to walk.. Quiet streets with sidewalks, park trails, athletic tracks at local schools, or shopping malls are sometimes good decisions.

2. Buy a superb pair of shoes.. Look for supportive yet flexible soles that cushion your feet. Comfort is vital when buying walking shoes. Shop at the tip of the day, when your feet are at their largest size. Choose shoes with “breathable” uppers, akin to nylon mesh.

3. Dress for comfort and safety. Wear lighter clothing than needed if standing. Dress in layers so you’ll be able to peel off clothes in case you get hot. Light-colored clothing and reflective vests help drivers notice you.

4. Do a five-minute warm-up and cool-down.. Start at a slow pace on your warm-up. At the tip of your walk, slow right down to cool down (even in case you're not sweating).

5. Practice good technique:

  • Walk at a quick, regular pace. If you're respiration an excessive amount of to maintain the conversation going, decelerate.
  • stand tall
  • Keep your head up so your chin is level and look 10 to twenty feet in front of you.
  • Lift your chest.
  • Keep your shoulders down.
  • Keep your toes straight in front of you.
  • Let your arms swing loosely at your sides. If you would like to increase your speed, bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle and swing your arms from waist height to chest height.
  • Land in your heel, then step forward onto the ball of your foot, pushing off together with your toes.
  • Take a cushty step. To go faster, take quick steps as an alternative of long ones.