Monday, June 3, 2013

Walk

Good Morning!!! 
     I considered waiting until tonight for today's post, but I hope I'm doing what today's topic is...WALKing!  Several friends and family members have asked me to help them start running.  I have to remind people, I walk first, run some.  Walking seems so simple, almost like you could tell someone, just go for a walk!  Though walking seems simple, there are some things that can "make it work".  First, make a goal!  A goal that would be easy to keep would be to walk for 30 minutes for two days a week and do an alternate exercise for two days a week.  These four 30 minute segments will increase your metabolism, boost your confidence, and give you something to look forward to.  I think looking at exercise in this manner makes it more fun and less like work. 
     So let's solidify these goals...what works best for you, walking in the morning or the evening?  Do you need music or do you prefer the sound of nature?  Do you like to walk alone or with a friend?  These are all considerations that can affect your success rate.
     Next, what to wear?  Wear comfortable clothes in the beginning.  If you're not comfortable, who would want to walk a couple of miles (or more!)?  You can buy more specific athletic wear after you've gotten comfortable with your walking "groove".  Shoes, and socks, I think, are the MOST important items in any walker's closet.  The shoes should be made for walking and/or running.  Socks should be moisture wicking and also designed for sports.  Putting good money in your socks and shoes could be a key factor in keeping you "on track" in your walking endeavors.  I've had a lot of success with both Asics and Brooks brand of shoes.  My favorite socks for walking/running are Saucony compression socks.  They aren't very pretty, but they do help my legs feel like I could walk/run a 100 miles! 
    

3 comments:

  1. I can't believe I didn't think of this since I am known in the family as an ultra cautious person, but please think of safety first when you are walking. Wear bright colored clothes, and consider carrying pepper spray. Check with your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program. Unless you have specific medical conditions, they will give you the thumbs up to start walking!

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  2. My doctor says walking is the best thing you can do for yourself. I love to walk. My body can't handle running now with the fibromyalgia and arthritis it just hurts too much.
    I now carry pepper spray with me because out here there's all sorts of critters running around :(

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    1. keep walking! I think it helps my fibromyalgia. I also take Savella, but it's a lower dose than recommended. The recommended dose made my heart rate go up:(

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