Wherever you look there seem to be a million voices telling you how to get fitter, how to get thinner and how to make yourself look and feel better. Often these voices overlap and contradict each other and trying to find a reasonable opinion is next to impossible.
That’s why in this blog, we’re taking a look at the benefits of just one exercise and why it’s beneficial to everyone, young and old, large and small. It’s easy, it’s free and almost anyone can do it who isn’t limited by illness or disability. It’s walking.
If you’ve always considered walking just a means to an end, we hope we’ll be able to convince that you’re walking for your health is a valid, fun way to start your fitness journey.
Walking is Accessible
If you have reasonable mobility and can get outside, then walking is for you. You just need a pair of comfortable shoes, canes if you need them, and off you go. There’s no need to splash out on expensive trainers or walking shoes, save that for it if you get really serious. Just strap on your sneakers and open the front door.
The other great thing about walking is that you can do it alone, with a friend, or lost in your music or a podcast. If you’re not feeling confident or haven’t taken a walk in a while, then ask a friend to come with you as you gain confidence in your own movement.
Image courtesy of Pixabay: CC0 license
Walking Takes You Places
No more staring at the four walls of a gym, walking can give you a fresh appreciation of your surroundings, reintroduce you to the natural beauty of your area and give you back that satisfaction of breathing in a deep breath of fresh air.
Progression is Quick
You might just take a walk around the block on your first outing. Well done, it’s a great start. But how about make it two laps the next time? Then you can set your sights further afield. Look online for mapped routes in your area, from very short to the slightly more challenging.
If you feel your fitness improving and are looking for more of a challenge, find hillier routes or try and maintain a faster pace. Whatever you do, just make sure you still find yourself walking just for the pleasure of movement. Nothing is guaranteed to stop you walking more than it feeling like a chore.
Walking is one of the best ways to experience the outdoors in a way that is gentle and builds progression. Make it fun, make it a walk that takes you to some beautiful places. Make it sociable with friends and dogs or make it your escape with your favorite music or podcast.
It’s never been easier to get your fitness levels up, so find a pair of comfortable walking shoes, wrap up and open that front door. You’re ready to take on the world and get walking.
This post was a collaboration.
Thank you for reading!
