Walking is an amazing method of exercise. It’s low-impact, easy to do and it’s simple to fit in to a busy schedule. It’s a simple way to add the exercise that you need into your day. With just a 30 minute brisk walk per day you can reduce your risk of heart disease, increase muscle strength, increase pulmonary and cardiovascular fitness, and, importantly for this article, improve spinal health.
If you’re planning to add brisk walking to your daily routine, here are some tips to help you start:
Schedule a time like an appointment. Don’t let walking be an option, make it a priority. You don’t miss appointments, so don’t miss your walk.
Make sure that you schedule it at a time that actually works for you. Don’t schedule an early morning walk if you know you won’t wake up for it, and don’t leave a walk until after work if you know you’ll be too tired for it.
Walking at lunch time can be a great way to clear your mind and return to work with more focus. You can listen to music and unwind while you walk as well. Just make sure you leave enough time to eat.
Find someone to walk with. Walk with your partner when you’re both home from work so that you can talk about your days while you exercise. Maybe you’d rather have a friend to work out with. Find someone who will not only keep you accountable, but make you look forward to your walks.
Set achievable goals. If you live an extremely sedentary lifestyle 10000 steps a day may not be achievable for you. Start with 5000 and once you start hitting that consistently move up in increments of 2500.
If you’re walking during the day make sure that you’re sun smart. Remember to wear a hat and appropriate sun safe clothing. Don’t forget sunscreen either.
Stay hydrated. It’s very important to not only be drinking water while exercising but through out the day too. If you aren’t sufficiently hydrated you may feel light headed during your workout and your recovery time will be far longer.