Walking your way to fitness

Trimming that ever-bulging waistline, reducing stress, improving your mood, managing your weight and lowering your blood pressure can be achieved simply by taking a walk.These benefits can all be accomplished through routine brisk walking. Regular fast walks reduce the risk of heart attack by the same amount as more energetic exercises such as lifting weights and jogging.Unlike other types of exercises, walking isn’t likely to lead to any injuries. It’s the easiest and simplest form of exercise that can help a great deal to keep in shape, good health and alleviate symptoms of depression.Getting prepared to walk for fitnessWear comfortable shoesBe sure to wear comfortable footwear. Choose shoes with proper arch support and thick flexible soles to cushion your feet and absorb shock. Try on the shoes before you buy them just so you’re sure that they are comfortable.Also dress in loose fitting and comfortable clothing for walking. If you walk outside, choose clothes appropriate for the weather. Avoid rubberized materials, as they don’t allow perspiration to evaporate. Wear bright colors or reflective tape after dark so that motorists can see you.Use proper techniqueWalking is a great exercise because it’s so simple to do. But using the correct posture and movements is essential. Spend about five minutes walking slowly to warm up your muscles. You can walk in place if you want. Increase your pace until you feel warm.StretchResearchers found that 30 minutes of cardio exercise a day, such as walking, and switching to a healthier diet dropped health risks dramatically in just 6 weeks. Risks for killers such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease were greatly reduced. This is according to a study by Brigham Young University professor of Exercise Science, Steven Aldana, published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.If you are lazy or have no time to hit the gym, go swimming and all the other exercise, atleast you can walk your way to great health and shape.