Walk yourself into a good shape!

Many people consider walking as a low-impact, non-challenging exercise. For them, swimming, aerobics or a work out at the gym is satisactory. Walking is, however, the best exercise for those who want to engage themselves in a good practical  exercise.

 I have seen my father going for a long evening walk since my childhood. While I would ride my favourite  bicycle he would walk briskly along with me in short strides. Since a small streak of diabetes runs in his family my father has been conscious of his fitness, especially of the extra layer around his stomach. After walking for a few months, he succeeded in losing a good part of his weight. But quite paradoxically, observing his weight-loss, people began to suspect that he was diabetic!

To get a flat stomach, to cut down the waistline and to tone yourself walking is the easiest and the cheapest exercise available. It is a healthy habit which you can do anywhere at any time. It is advisable to get a thorough check-up from a medical practitioner before beginning a weight loss walking programme.

Walk away!

1. Like any physical activity, walking also needs warm up. Do some stretching. Start by walking slowly and for 10 or 15 minutes daily for a few days before you start increasing the time. Remember that a good walk would range between 30-60 minutes everyday.
2. Wear any comfortable clothing and preferably a walking shoe. Grab your pedometer and a hat if it is too sunny.
3. Drink enough water a while before you exercise to prevent dehydration. Take a bottle of water with you so that you can get a small sip if need be.
4. Hold your posture straight and swing your arms well while you walk.
5. It is good to build up the intensity as you walk as walking is the best cardio exercise.
6. Don’t strain if you have a full stomach. A slow walk after food will help digestion and prevent heartburn.
7. It is important to cool down after a walk by walking slowly before coming to a stop.

In all, walking enables you to lose calories, have fun, relax from stress, be fit with reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes, to inhale some fresh air and to enjoy the scenic beauty around which you never noticed before. After a good walk rather than being tired, you feel fresh and energized but a little hungry!