Walking, the Simplest Way to Exercise

Are you looking for a simple but effective way to exercise and tone your body? Why not try walking? Here are some tips to help you on your way.

• Your feet will be your best walking buddies, be nice to them and wear a good pair of walking shoes.
• The first few days choose a small exercise route. Your body will let you know if this is too much and whether to cut back or if it is time to enlarge your territory.
• When possible plan a course that has nice scenery and a few hills to make it more interesting. If the winter weather makes it hard, try walking in a mall. Many malls offer walking clubs before the mall opens.
• Take your walking seriously – do it every day even if you have to shorten your walk. Use it as a time to dream, plan, clear your head while your feet do the work.
• Be safety conscious. Wear reflective arm bands or clothing while walking at dusk, night or on rainy/snowy days.
• Set goals. Start with small goals and keep extending your walking goals either in distance or the speed at which you finish them. This will give you a sense of accomplishment, even before you see the results in your body.
• Reward yourself, especially when you reach a milestone goal. An integral component of your exercise plan is to look back and see just how far you’ve come. Enjoy your success! Exercise: besides being healthy, it’s a great mood enhancer.