Walk the Walk

When I was young, our family lived on the outskirts of town. It was a one-kilometre walk to school. As a teenager, I would trek the five kilometres to the nearest bus stop to ride into downtown. My mother loved to walk and led the family on weekend hikes through nearby forests and trails. I grew up with walking and enjoy it as my number one cardiovascular activity to this day.

I find walking to be the most flexible and relaxing activity. You don’t need any special equipment or skills – just a good pair of shoes and sensible clothing. You can do it anywhere and anytime with a friend or by yourself. Walking offers less risk of injury, with many of the benefits of more strenuous activities.

As much as I love walking, other people may find it boring after a while. Here are some tips from walking enthusiasts that may help:

Walk with a destination in mind

Walk to the library, bank, post office, etc. to do your errands. Wear a backpack to carry your purchases or library books. That’s a better way to carry weight and it frees your hands to swing while you walk.

Listen to the radio

You can listen to a talk show station such as the CBC or catch up on your reading with a book on tape. Music can also help give a rhythm to your walking.

Walk in new places

Try taking a bus to a different area and walk there. Choose a park with trails through nature or walk through a new residential area.

Keep your mind active

Play a mind game while you walk. One avid walker enjoys “renovating” houses as she walks. She adds a dormer to this one and remodels the porch on that one.

Team up with a friend

A partner can make workouts more fun and push you to try harder. You will be more likely to stick to your plan if you have a partner. Consider joining a walking club. In the colder months, you can join a mall-walking group and continue your program.

Blessings on the road to health!

By Kimberley Payne, an experienced Personal Trainer who lives in Millbrook, combines Christian commitment with over fifteen years’ experience in the health and wellness arena. Visit her Website www.kimberleypayne.com.

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