Walking Is Man’s Best Medicine

Walking Promotes Health

Walking is man’s best medicine. Hippocrates

Walking is awesome exercise and a great way to maintain your health. There are so many benefits of walking but I have just picked a few for you to consider. There is always time for a short walk so don’t make excuses, just get going and you will see and feel the benefits of walking right away.

For beginners, please start out nice and easy and just go for 10 minutes or so. The important thing to remember is that you are making a commitment to yourself to get moving. Plan to walk a couple times a day for 10 minutes and gradually increase the time as you get stronger. This is the best way to start and it gives you the motivation to do it because you are achieving your goals. If you stay on track, then pretty soon you will be able to go for longer walks and you will have more energy!

Here are some of the key benefits of walking.

• Lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol)
• Raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol)
• Lower your blood pressure
• Reduce your risk of or manage type 2 diabetes
• Manage your weight
• Improve your mood
• Stay strong and fit

Before you jump off the couch and get going, you need to get prepared for a workout. First, you will need the proper walking shoes. Make sure to choose shoes with proper arch support, a firm heel and thick flexible soles to absorb the shock from walking. There is no need to go out and purchase the most expensive footwear. Find something that fits right, is comfortable and feels great when testing them out in the store. Be aware that certain brands offer wider options so take the time to get a shoe that fits you perfectly.

It is always important to warm up prior to the walk. You can walk in place, do stretching exercises and start out slowly to get your muscles nice and warm. After about five minutes of slowly walking, then increase the pace but make sure to maintain a pace that fits your level of fitness.

When you walk, pay close attention to your form and posture. Stand tall, chest up and swing your arms to help you increase the intensity of the workout and to build muscle in your arms.

After the walk, it is always a good idea to cool down by walking slowly for five minutes. Also, do some more stretching exercises and make sure you drink lots of water to maintain proper hydration.

Remember, to set your walking goals so that you can easily achieve them but gradually readjust the goals to match your level of fitness. Please do this for your health and stay committed to your plan. You will look and feel terrific and have so much more energy.