Chiropractic and Walking Can Put You a Step Ahead
By Sandy Schroeder
If you seldom go for walks, this may be the time to find out how much they can do for you.
The Mayo Clinic tells us walking is "a low-impact exercise that delivers a higher level of fitness and health."
Here's What It Can Do
- Check these benefits.
- Manage your weight
- Manage your blood pressure
- Reduce the risk of heart attacks
- Reduce the risk of diabetes
- Keep you active and strong
- Reduce stress and lift your mood
- Strengthen your core
- Improve your balance
At the same time, walking has also been shown to help seniors stay active longer, encourage better sleep and keep the mind clearer.
If that sounds great, here are some tips to get started with regular walking.
Set goals - Pinpoint what you want walking to do and use those goals to keep you on track. Losing weight, gaining strength and shedding stress can make every day a lot better.
Start slowly - Begin with a short comfortable walk and just keep on going, walking farther and longer. Avoid plunging into long walks the first day that leave you stiff and tired. Keep the momentum going as you gradually increase your effort. Before you know it, walking will be a part of your day every day.
Use backups to walk daily - If you miss your morning walk, make time for a late afternoon or evening walk. If all else fails, spend a little time walking in place or walking on a treadmill.
Keep going in spite of the weather - It's tempting to skip walks when heat or rain set in, but try to keep them going with early morning or late afternoon walks when it's cooler. Consider walking in a mall or doing a workout at the gym when it rains.
Add walking buddies and scenic paths - Ask a friend to join your walks. That can make walks more fun and keep both of you on track. You may even form a small walking group of friends and neighbors and include your family. Keep looking for new paths with great views and lots of trees to enrich your walks. Watch for changes out there as you walk.
Chart your progress - As your walks continue, monitor your weight, number of days missed, and overall health. As always, check with your doctor before beginning new exercise routines.
When you are ready to walk more, visit The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you. Find out about the personal healthcare plans that eliminate the hassle of insurance. Walk-ins are welcome.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Atlanta, Ga.