Mention exercise to a group of people and you might be met with a chorus of moaning and groaning. Although there are some who love their daily session at the gym, to many, exercise means sweating and perhaps even suffering. No pain no gain, right? But what if there was an easier way? A simple exercise routine that was cheap, easy, and effective. There is! Welcome to the wonderful world of walking!
Walk This Way
The beauty of walking as a form of exercise is in its simplicity. For just the cost of a pair of walking shoes, you can start your own walking routine. No pricey gym membership! Walking can be done on your own schedule and at your preferred intensity. You can walk whenever you want and wherever you want. In addition, anyone can reap the rewards of walking. Whether you’re a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or a retiree looking for a way to stay active, you can make a daily walk a part of your routine. Beyond its simplicity, walking has a myriad of benefits.
Getting in Shape
Walking will increase your physical fitness. It’s low-impact, meaning it’s easy on your joints, and it can help you burn calories, build muscle, and improve your cardiovascular health.
Boost Your Mood
Walking stimulates the release of mood boosting chemicals from your brain. A walk outdoors increases these benefits. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can improve your mood, reduce stress, and even help you sleep better at night. If you’ve been stuck inside all day, taking a walk can be a great way to refresh your mind and increase your energy levels.
Recharge
Walking gives you an opportunity to recharge and reflect. When you’re walking, you have time to think, to process your thoughts and emotions, and to come up with new ideas.
Steps to Success
Are you ready to reap the benefits of walking? To set yourself up for success, remember these tips:
• Start small! If you are new to walking as a form of exercise, don’t feel that you have to walk a marathon every day. A short walk is a good starting point.
• Make a plan! Having a plan will help you stick to your new walking routine. Pick the time and days that you want to walk and plan out your route. Consider writing down your walking schedule or entering it into your calendar.
• Get a walking buddy! If you don’t want to walk by yourself, consider enlisting a friend or family member to be your walking buddy. It’s a great way to work in extra time with your friends or family and you also have someone to hold you accountable.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your walking shoes, step outside, and WALK!