Going by leaps and bounds: walking for fun and staying fit

Let’s talk about walking and being in shape now that summer has arrived.

Walking for fun and exercise

According to an article I found at the Mayo Clinic, walking can produce the following benefits:
*It’s safe and easy (no practice needed)
* It is low impact
* It can help put you in a better mood.
* May lower your LDL cholesterol (or “lousy” cholesterol)
*May help improve your HDL (or “happy” cholesterol)
*May help lower blood pressure
*It can help you lose weight
* May help reduce stress.

Personally, walking would be worth it for stress reduction alone, but I have a pretty full house and it’s a great escape when I need a break.

the beauty of walking

The beauty of walking is that you can do it anywhere without any major special equipment. A good pair of walking shoes, appropriate clothing for the weather and you’re good to go. You can also walk with friends and turn it into an outing. Walking with friends is actually a great way to catch up with others, get some fresh air and exercise, and it’s also a great way to gauge your pace.

When you walk for fitness, you should be slightly out of breath, but not completely out of breath and still able to carry on a conversation. When he gets to that point, he knows he’s walking at a good pace that will not only help burn calories, but also increase other health benefits.

walking clubs

If you’re looking for excuses to do things with your friends because there’s not enough time in the day (trust me, I’m so right there with you), then start a walking club. It’s a great reason to get together and you can even bring your kids with you if they’re still home. Our moms group at church goes to different parks during the summer with the kids. Walking through some of the gardens is not only beautiful but also refreshing and fun. We all like to see beautiful things.

If you are working, form a group that can walk to lunch. Even 15 to 20 minutes of walking every day can be good for you. (Help him detox after his boss drives him crazy all morning!) If you want to walk and don’t know where to start, find a good personal trainer to help you with your fitness plan. That way, you can start walking on your own to have fun and stay fit. Make progress!