Walking for Health

Thomas Jefferson has rightly said “Of all exercises walking is the best”
Walking is the most natural and easiest exercise known to man and can be followed by most individuals. There are many individuals who believe that they know to walk and there is nothing new to learn without considering the possibility that there is a definite scope of improvement when you add it to your exercise regime. You can improve your ability to walk and make every step safer, easier and more enjoyable.
Whether you are a seasoned walker or just starting out, there are various walking tips that can help you get the most from your work out.

• Check with the doctor

It is important to consult the doctor before starting a walking regime if you have had a recent injury or if you have a chronic medical condition.

• Invest in good shoes

A good pair of walking shoes is the only equipment that is needed to perform the exercise. It is important to pay attention to the fit and quality of the shoes. Wear shoes with thick flexible soles that will cushion your feet and absorb shock. Shoes should be comfortable and should not cause any areas to pinch.
It is important that you wear the type of socks you would generally wear while walking when you purchase your shoes. If you are used to wearing thick socks you might generally need a larger sized shoe.

• Go easy

If you have just started your exercise regime it is important to start slowly and not stress your body too much. You can start by walking for 10 min in the first week and then keep adding time on your exercise program until you have reached your maximum limit.

• Warm up

Warm up exercises or walking at a slow pace for five minutes is essential before you get into the exercise mode. Warm up is a way to prepare your body for the next activity that you are about to perform. It helps to ease any muscle stiffness and prevents future muscle strain. Warm up helps the individual to walk longer and injury free.

• Breathe naturally

It is recommended that you take deep rhythmic breaths while walking to get maximum oxygen into your system. You should walk fast enough so that your breathing is increased but you are able to talk and carry on exercising. 

• Use good posture

It is important to maintain a good posture while walking. Keep your head up, look forward, back straight and abdomen flat while walking. Take long strides but do not strain yourself while walking. Swing your arms naturally as you walk.

• Drink plenty of water

It is important to drink plenty of water before and during exercises to keep your body hydrated. Water keeps our body energized while exercising.

• Keep yourself motivated

There are many people who walk when in company, while some have their iPods to keep them going. It is important to find your individual solution that would keep you motivated to keep going.
These are a few tips that you need to incorporate to make walking an easy and enjoyable part of your life.