Walking for Fitness - Tips

Here are a few tips to help you get started on a walking program and continue safely and effectively. Also see our list of walking dos and don'ts.

Walking Tips

Walk Safely: Don't use a 6-lane highway as you're walking path. Try to find a safe area to walk if you can.
Get Comfortable Shoes: Use a pair of comfortable shoes preferably with a cushioned sole. Better yet, if you are serious about walking, buy yourself a topnotch pair of walking shoes.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Wear clothing you feel comfortable walking in. Preferably bright upper body clothing if you walk along more heavily traveled roads.
Start Gradually: Start gradually with your walking to avoid getting super stiff and sore. Give your muscles a chance to get used to it.
Tune Out: Listen to audio-books, podcasts, or music while you walk. It's a great way to avoid boredom and to catch up on your "reading".
Be Aware of your Posture: Walk with good posture by keeping your Abs tight, head up and shoulders back and not slouched ahead.

walking for fitness

Increase Intensity: For an added challenge, try hand or ankle weights.
Change Pace: Try alternating fast and slow intervals while walking. Interval training can help increase your speed and endurance faster than basic training, and will burn more calories.
Walk with a buddy: the walk will be much more fun with a friend, and you can help motivate each other.
Stretch Afterwards: Use some light stretching after you are done walking to help bring some elasticity back into your muscles.
Drink: If it is hot outside make sure to drink enough water to keep hydrated.
Stay Alert: To reduce getting hit by a car try not wearing headphones.

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