If you are new to the workout game I suggest starting with walking. It’s an easy way to get moving without overworking yourself.
The CDC suggests that adults should get 10,000 steps a day. 10,000 seems like a big number, but the steps add up quicker than you think. Just add all this up…walking through the grocery store or mall counts, walking on your lunch break counts, trips to the bathroom count, the list could go on. You can easily get to 10,000 steps if you actively try to achieve it.
Here are some of my suggestions to make walking a part of your daily routine:
1. Footwear – if you plan to walk regularly for fitness, invest in a good pair of sneakers. Also, socks are super important. I suggest either getting sport compression socks or sport cushion socks. These are my favorite: Adidas Cushioned Quarter Socks. Having a good foundation will decrease the chance of injury.
2. Entertainment – walking can be boring…but only if you let it! A few suggestions are to find a friend to walk with, listen to your favorite playlist, or enjoy a new book by listening to an audiobook. I love to listen to audiobooks with my Audible app.
It makes me feel like I am multi-tasking, plus if the book is really good I might just keep on walking to hear what happens!
3. Fitness Tracker – if you are striving to reach that 10,000 step goal you need to track it somehow. You don’t have to get a fitness tracker if you don’t want to – most cell phones have a pedometer built in. Another option is the app MapMyWalk.
With the help of the GPS on your phone the app will track how far you have walked and your pace. The app also includes other features like route suggestions, gear tracker, and connecting with friends.
4. Make a Schedule – if you want to increase your fitness set aside 30 minutes 5 times a week to walk. Also, identify where you are going to walk – the park, track, treadmill, mall, etc. Changing up the scenery can make your walks more interesting.
5. Find a Cause – this past weekend I participated in my local MS walk.
It was a great way to walk 3 miles, support a good cause, and spend time with friends. Look for opportunities in your community. Most 5K runs have a walk option and they are happening all the time now that the weather is getting nicer. Or you can pick your favorite organization and see if they have 5Ks or walks. I plan to walk two 5Ks this summer a color run/walk and a glow run/walk.
So, there are my top 5 tips to help you get out and start walking. No matter where you are physically walking is a good option. No matter whether you walk for 5 minutes or 30 minutes its a step (pun intended!) in the right direction.
What motivates you to get out and exercise? Where is your favorite place to walk in your community? Who is your favorite person to go on a walk with? Let me know in the comments!!
