Walking

Have you given much thought lately about improving your health by exercising? If not, maybe it is time that you did. Right now, you are thinking of every excuse that you can possibly can as to why you cannot exercise. Things like you do not have the time, you cannot afford to go to a gym, you are too tired, it is boring, you are too fat, your back hurts, the list goes on and on and on.

Well, stop the whining and grab your shoes and start walking. Yes, walking. You have been doing it most of your life and you already have everything you need to do it. Just bump it up a notch and try for thirty minutes a day five days of the week. Heck, if you cannot do thirty minutes all at once break it up into three ten minutes segments throughout the day.

The benefits of walking are tremendous:

1. You will burn calories which will help you to maintain or lose weight. The actual number of calories you burn depends on your speed, terrain, distance, and your current weight.
2. Strengthen your heart and lung functions, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
3. Improve such conditions as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
4. Strengthen your bones and increased muscle strength.
5. Boost your immune system.
6. Improve joint pain and stiffness.
7. Boost your energy.

Shoot you can just walk around your house if you cannot go outside. If you do walk outside remember these safety tips:

1. Wear reflective clothing if you walk in the early morning or evening so vehicles can see you.
2. If possible, walk in well- lit pedestrians designated areas.
3. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and sturdy shoes.
4. Stay well hydrated.
5. Wear sunscreen.
6. Always be aware of your surroundings.

So, you do not get bored and give up on your walking routine change things a bit like the time of day you walk things look different in the morning opposed to the evenings. Drive to different parks. If you usually walk alone, ask a friend to go with you. If you have a dog, take him with you.

Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Happy Walking!