Get Motivated to Walk With These Tips
By Rachel Carver
Walking is a great physical activity for weight loss and overall health. But life gets crazy, and the idea of having to do one more thing can seem next to impossible.
Humans are social by nature. We enjoy doing things with others. However, for various reasons, you might start your walking regimen on your own.
Some Benefits of Walking Alone
- Relieve stress on a walk through meditation
- Set your own pace
- Pick your route and change it up anytime
- Walk when your schedule allows
It can sometimes be hard to stay motivated when you do not have another person to keep you accountable. Here are some tips to stay motivated and accomplish your walking goals.
Take Advantage of Mindful Walking
Pay attention to your body and your surroundings during your walk. This can reduce stress, curb cravings, and increase energy levels. Start by picking a peaceful route that will get you closer to nature. Focus on the trees around you, or on how your feet hit the ground with each step. Breathe deeply and let yourself be in the moment, forgetting about daily life for a few minutes as you walk.
Walk With an Audio Book or Podcast
Hectic schedules sometimes make it hard to read a good book or listen to that podcast you heard about. Listening to something during your walk can make time go by faster. It is sometimes nice to take a technology break, but an audio book or podcast can give you motivation on the days you need it most.
Walk in Intervals
Interval walking is a great way to get in your workout when you are short on time. Use these quick sessions to focus on form, speed, and efficiency.
Here's what a 30-minute interval walk could look like:
- A 5-minute warm-up
- Alternate 4 minutes of normal walking with 1 minute of fast walking
- Repeat this 4 times
- Cool down for 5 minutes
Synchronize Your Walking and Breathing
Known as breathwalking, this walking technique focuses on taking a breath as you step. This can relax your mind, improve your awareness, and reduce your heart disease risk.
Remember How You Feel
It can be hard to walk before work, after a long day, or even to squeeze it in during your lunch hour. But reminding yourself of why you walk to exercise and how you feel once you complete your workout can motivate you to follow through. Remind yourself of your why and that you have more energy throughout the week because of your walking routine.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cincinnati, Ohio.