WALKING AS EXERCISE

Tips on using walking as part of your exercise routine

We know integrating workouts into our daily routine can be a challenge when time is in short supply. But did you know that it can be as simple as upgrading your relaxed daily morning walk to a slightly more active version to benefit even more? Or, to make it even easier, the walk from your car to work can count as a walking exercise if you park far away enough. 

women walking in autumn winter

Is walking a form of exercise? Yes, it most certainly is!

Walking is a low impact cardiovascular type of exercise, which means there’s less stress on the body and so it’s a very effective form of training. Whether you suffer from back pain or just the little niggles throughout your body, walking allows your muscles to warm up, loosen up providing more mobility and flexibility. It provides a space where you can clear your mind and get into a positive mindset. 

Here are a few tips on how to go about getting into a walking routine and how to progress to make it more challenging to get everything you need out of your walk.

Start off by doing the following to be well prepared:

  • Step 1: Make an walking exercise playlist. Or take a podcast with you if you like to kept entertained.
  • Step 2: Get proper walking clothes & shoes:  Breathable and comfortable, keep it simple. Warm & layered in winter. 
  • Step 3: Find a good pace to walk which makes you happy & allows you to reset.
  • Step 4: Set reasonable expectations and goals I.e. how far you want to walk for. 
  • Step 5: Develop a strong mental attitude for a slower but steady exercise. 

Setting out for your walk:

  • Hydrate well before your walk or take your water bottle with you.
  • Pick an easy route for your first walk.
  • Set a time for your walk. Make it a non-negotiable!

Gradually improve your walking routine:

Whether you just want to be active or you walking is part of your plan to lose weight it is always a good idea to make progressions. Here are a few ideas.

  • Increase your time (walk for a longer period of time)
  • Work on your speed and the difficulty of your walk. Use terrain that incorporates up and down-hill paths. 
  • Determine your heart rate during your walk with a heart rate monitor or via your smart watch (if possible).
  • Progress your walk into INTERVAL TRAINING I.e. walk at a faster pace for two minutes and then to a normal pace for 1 minute. 

 

So what do we take away… 

By adding walking to your everyday activity will definitely help you on a physical and mental level too. What is great about walking is you can use it just to put your mind at ease and you can also modify it to be a form of effective training.  

Besides, you don’t have to go to a gym. You can start walking as soon as you leave the house, it’s so simple. 

Disclaimer: All content and media on the fu/nis EMS training website is created and published online for informational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

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