Get out there and walk!

It’s almost June and the weather has been great.  Makes you want to get out and exercise, doesn’t it?

Well, before you do that, stop and think for a moment.  How about picking an activity that you can do year round?  You love swimming but only have access to a pool during the summer—what do you do after that? 

All right, so you have picked walking.  The best way to start is to set a start date—let’s say Sunday, 2 weeks from now.  You have time to figure out a variety of issues—like what time will you go?  Can you go at that time every day?  Does variation of your job hours pose a problem?  How about getting up 45 minutes earlier and start your walking first thing in the morning? 

Before you start, do you have the right shoes?  Get the best pair that are the most comfortable out there.  Don’t scrimp on shoes.  How about clothes?  Do you have some lightweight shirts and shorts that absorb the sweat and keep you cool? 

And finally, are you going to do this by yourself?  Or do you have a buddy?  Or a dog?  Having a companion makes the walk more fun. But remember, it is a walk , not a stroll. 

Get in the habit of stretching before your walk and afterwards.  Make sure you are hydrated.  Set some goals. Start at 20 minutes 3 times a week and over time increase to 60 minutes every day.  Walking on the job doesn’t count. And rewarding yourself with ice cream after doesn’t count.  Try yogurt or fruit. 

If you have medical issues, especially cardiac or respiratory, consult your doctor before venturing out.  Are there any precautions you should take? 

There are lots of issues to consider here.  But, remember, your goal is to exercise every day, so you need to take into account all of the items I’ve listed. 

Is there an upcoming race/walk venue?  Sign up, get a T-shirt, and enjoy the walk.  

Your body will thank you.