Did you know that walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise? It is a low-impact exercise that can ease you into a higher level of fitness and health.  This is exciting news for those who have not been exercising regularly.

The benefits of walking are many:

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

Walking is safe, simple and (almost) anyone can do it!

5 steps to starting an exercise regimine:

1. Pick a time of day.  If you walk the same time every day, it becomes part of your routine.
2. Have the proper gear- this includes comfortable clothes and good footwear.
3. Be sure to stretch or walk in place first to warm up.
4. Go at a comfortable pace as far as you feel able. increasing the distance daily.
5. Once your body becomes accustomed to regular exercise, step it up a notch:

Try these ideas:

Walking up hills
Walking with hand weights
Increasing your walking speed gradually by including some quick walking
Increasing the distance you walk quickly before returning to a moderate walking pace
Walking for longer.

For weight loss, watch your calories as well….

A pound of fat equals 3500 calories.

To lose 1 pound a week you will need to burn off 3500 more calories than you eat that week, whether through increased activity or decreased eating or both.

Check out these negative calorie foods that may help!

Having trouble getting started?

Join or start a walking group or ask a friend to walk with you.

Change your route and get a change of scenery!

Bring along some music via an iPod, cell phone, etc….

Bring your dogs for a walk…it’s good for them too.

There are so many benefits to walking, why not start today?