This has been a hot topic among friends this week. And not just about walking, but the importance of exercise - whatever form it may be - on your overall physical and mental health.
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. It's low impact and can be done indoors or outdoors.
***I am not a doctor or an exercise physiologist. Everything you are about to read comes from years of research and personal experience. Please consult your doctor before starting any workout program.
Let's get started!
Challenge Yourself
Create challenges that are both fun and satisfying.
Go on Pinterest and find a fun 30-Day Walking Challenge
Bring your dog and try to keep up with him/her
Pick a different route that incorporates hills
Go a little further or faster each week
Interval Walking
Interval walking is a great way to speed up weight loss. Intervals consist of speeding up and slowing the intensity throughout your workout.
There are so many free workouts online that give you step by step instructions for interval workouts either by pace or by incorporating weight baring exercises.
Here is an example of an interval workout I have done:
Warm up for 5 minutes with a relaxing walk (move your arms to get the blood flowing in your upper body). After completing your 5 minute warm up, slightly increase your pace for 5 minutes. Stop and do 20 squats. Start your walk back up, this time picking up the pace a little more, for 5 minutes. Stop and do 20 push ups. Start walking again, pick up the pace for another 5 minutes. Stop and do 20 lunges. Start walking again, this time at a slightly slower pace for 5 minutes. Stop and do 20 sit ups/crunches. Finish the last 5 minutes of your walk at a relaxed pace then end your workout with a slow, fluid stretch.
Awareness
Pay attention to your surroundings. Use your senses.
Look for beauty and you will find it. I have seen turtles, cats, flowers blooming in odd places, imprints in sidewalks, and amazing clouds formations to name a few.
Smell the air. The crispness in the Fall, fireplaces burning in the Winter, flowers blooming in the Spring, salt in the air by the ocean in the Summer.
Feel the heat of the sun on your skin, the wind against your face, blades of grass brushing your ankles, the sand between your toes.
I have taken some amazing photos capturing the things I have seen on my walks that I would have missed had I not been paying attention.
Scavenger Hunt
Grab your family and friends and go on a walking scavenger hunt.
You can create a list of things to look for while out you're out or pick up whatever you find interesting.
What do you do with it all once you've gathered it? Create a piece of art or decoration using the items you brought home. Not only will this give you more time with your loved ones, it'll create a lasting memory.
Listen to a Podcast or Book on Tape
This is a perfect time to catch up on the latest best seller or listen to the next episode of the Podcast you can't get enough of.
This is also a good time to step out of your comfort zone and listen to a book in a different genre or a Podcast on a topic you wouldn't naturally gravitate toward but your friend is telling you it's a must listen.
Whether you're indoors or out, there are always ways to spice up your walking routine.
Have a great week!
Rebecca~
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