A great fitness program starts by simply putting one foot in front of the other. Walking is an ideal exercise for people who are new to exercise, and it is a great way to lose weight and get your body moving. The best part? You can do it just about anywhere. Even if you have been sedentary for a long time or are just starting on a weight loss journey, you can begin a walking program and see results – without having to join a gym, invest in fancy equipment (other than a decent pair of shoes), or learn how to use exercise machines 

What are the benefits of walking?

Walking is a weight-bearing exercise and has many benefits for the body and mind, which is why it’s such an excellent tool to kick-off, or add, to your fitness routine. 

The many benefits of walking include:

  • Increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) capacity
  • Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke
  • Decreased risk for hypertension, high cholesterol, joint pain, and diabetes
  • Increased bone density 
  • Improved mood
  • Reduced body fat
  • Reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease
How do I start a walking routine?

When starting a walking routine, you want to make sure that you have comfortable shoes that support your feet. Your local running or fitness store can help you find a pair that is right for your feet, and fit you properly for shoes, which reduces your risk of discomfort or injury as you begin a walking program. 

Next, pick a time of day that works best for you, whether morning, afternoon or evening. If you are new to exercise, start small and slowly build your way to longer durations. For example, try 10-15 minutes of walking and gradually increase to 30-45 minutes. And, there are a lot of ways to make your daily walk something you look forward to! Invite friends, your significant other, kids, and your dogs. It can be a family activity, or you can pop in your favorite music or podcast to escape for a bit. 

The most important thing to remember is that you need to do what works best for YOU. Create a routine that you enjoy and want to continue! Look for local walking groups on social media to connect with others who are using walking for fitness or wellness. You can also talk to your CoreLife exercise specialist about joining or starting a walking club at your clinic location!