Walking is indeed one of the most popular forms of exercise, but that’s not all it’s for. Walking or taking a stroll can help clear the mind of the hectic day. Maybe moms need to get a tiny break and walk to refresh their minds from dealing with a newborn. (Naps can help too!) It is something we all know how to do, but do we know when is best, where or what shoes to wear? It depends on what you are walking for.
Walking for the mind can be one of the most relaxing times of the day you have. You may choose to do it in the morning where you hear the beautiful songs from birds, crickets and the sound of wind in the leaves as they brush each other. After work or dinner it can help you relax for the evening when you want to wind the day down. Sometimes that is a nice time to say hello to or visit the neighbors as they are likely outside in the evening as well. Maybe you have a neighbor that loves to walk at the same time that will give you encouragement to meet often.
Walking for the body can feel so rewarding. It makes our legs strong, and more defined. There are many ways to get in shape by walking. It is a great fat burner. If you belong to a gym they typically have treadmills. It’s nice if it’s really cold outside during winter or if snow is on the ground to be able to walk on the treadmill inside. There are also events to sign up for such as a 5K, which you can choose to join to walk or run. Those are fun, because there are usually prizes and medals at the finish line. Many parks in the area have installed walking trails with nice rubberized turf to walk on and it’s easy on the feet. You’ll notice as you progress and walk longer that you will be feeling healthy.
Walking for health is for everyone of all ages and fit levels. The one thing about walking is that it improves your overall health from your heart to your lungs. It gets your metabolism going faster so you can burn calories. It’s what a lot of doctors prescribe to their patients to keep their blood circulating after having medical issues. Wearing proper shoes and walking on steady walkways is always the best method so as not to injure oneself. When walking after a while you’ll notice your endurance is greater to walk longer and farther. Isn’t that a confidence booster? To feel good emotionally, fit and healthy is worth the extra mile!
