How to Become a Walking Wonder:
Here is one of the biggest secrets in the fitness industry, with more and more people realising it….. Walking is one of the best ways to get fit! The best part of all is that it’s FREE! Yes that’s right, it costs you nothing. You can do it when ever suits you, with the minimum of fuss. Just put on your runners and away you go.
Walking wonders:
- Strengthens the cardiovascular system
- Tones muscles
- Increases flexibility
- Reduces stress
- Lowers fat
- Works the legs and bum
- Helps to reduce cellulite
Now by walking, I don’t mean strolling round the house; I am talking about doing an average of 4 miles an hour, at a brisk pace! It is best to map out a course for yourself, so that you know where you are going before you set out. If you can, grab a friend and get them to come out with you, friends are great for motivation and you can both get fit together! Or if you want, you could set up a walking group with some of your friends and get into shape together.
If possible measure the route in a car before hand, 4 mile’s is the optimum and should be completed within an hour, or as close as possible. If you find this pace too fast, then just walk at whatever pace you feel comfortable at and aim to build up your pace. And most important of all- HAVE FUN!!
My tips for the ultimate walk workout:
- Choose a route you enjoy and one that’s not too far from your home(the park, beach etc)
- Measure the distance in a car, 4 miles is optimum
- Get a walking buddy. You can motivate each other to get out!
- Walk heel to toe. This helps to prevent knee and back strain
- Get a good pair of runners or walking shoes, these will help prevent injuries, or sore feet. Ideally change your runners every three months if you are doing a lot of exercise.
- Change your stride every ten to fifteen minutes, this will help prevent soreness and stiffness in your joints
Why is walking so good:
- It’s free!!
- 1 hour of brisk walking burns 348 calories.
- Minimal amount of stress placed on the body-A walker’s foot receives 1 to 1 and a half times the body weight per stride, compared to running which places 3 to 4 times the body weight with each stride.
- It’s Easy and Accessible to all.
- There is no age limit on who can walk.
- You will have more energy than ever before, guaranteed.
For those of you who are finding it too easy:
- Stride walking-Simply bring light hand weights along with you and stride your arms by your side. Also aim for 5 mph as opposed to 4.
- Stair climbing-If you have access to a building with lots of stairs then you have no excuse! 15 to 20 minutes of climbing stairs is one of the greatest cardiovascular exercises as well!
So now I have let you in on this secret, I want to see you all out there walking the parks and beaches of the country. It’s so easy to do and you can achieve amazing results in just 2 weeks. This is going to be the best step towards a new, healthier and slimmer you!
How to continue training right through winter:
- Set yourself goals
- Make sure you have the correct clothing
- Get yourself a training buddy
- Enroll in an exercise class
- Keep drinking plenty of water
- Treat yourself when you achieve your targets
