Ways To Figure Out the Walking Game
Researchers have now made it clear that sitting for long periods is right up there in the danger zone along with smoking.
We know we should walk, but do we?
Sometimes I do and sometimes not. Knowing 10,000 steps is the recommended target does not always get me out there for that prescribed walk.
Easy ways to make walking work
Everybody has little tricks to get the job done. For me that means moving the walking sessions around. One day I will sneak in a brisk walk right before I go into the office. Another day I will take a long thoughtful walk after dinner. And on the weekends I might tempt myself to do a lot of walking through a favorite flea market. It really does not matter how you make it happen, just as long as it does.
Another way to push the walk button might be pairing it with your diet. Start logging in your weight loss along with your daily step count. The numbers might quickly support how walking can boost your metabolism and backup your diet efforts. Researchers tell us a 180 pound person burns about 100 calories per mile. If you were to build up your walking to 5 miles a day you would be taking a good whack at your overall calorie count.
Charting your numbers might boost walking’s appeal
As you log in your daily steps try doing a mood reading. On the days you hit your target numbers, do you also feel more upbeat, more relaxed, and just a bit more pleased with everything. Those steps can also kick quite a bit of stress to the curb too. Finally when you do a check in with your doctor, along with lower weight you might be pleased to see lower blood pressure numbers. Walking is endorsed for heart, lung health and cancer risk reduction.
Walking is also just as flexible as another favorite, yoga. It’s completely up to you, available 24-7, in the gym or at the park. All you really need is comfortable clothing, a good pair of walking shoes, and a little time to get away from everything. I have found you cannot beat it as a way to detach from the day’s commotion, and let your thoughts flow. Some of my best ideas emerge as I walk off to my favorite park.
Another friend of mine reports his daily walk in the park has become a must for setting the tone for his day. If he misses it, his day is just a little incomplete. Try it and see if walking becomes addictive for you too.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Dave Wright