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| new health tips |
| Improving Exercise |
- Before starting a walking program, check with your doctor if you have a chronic medical condition or if you have had a recent injury.
- Invest in good shoes. Since these are the only expense and equipment you'll need, pay attention to the fit and quality of your shoes.
- Always warm up by walking at a slow or normal walking pace for five minutes before picking up the tempo of your workout.
- Pay attention to your heart rate and breathing. Walk at a pace that challenges you and elevates your heart rate, but don't overdo.
- Use good walking posture. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends maintaining the following posture when exercise walking: Swing your arms. Keep your head up, back straight and abdomen flat. Point your toes straight ahead.
- Consider getting a pedometer to track the distance you've walked or the number of steps you've taken. Watching your improvement over time is a terrific source of motivation.
- Be sure to carry water if you're walking long distances or are exercising in hot weather.
- In the heat of summer, don't forget to wear a hat with a brim and to apply sunscreen to exposed areas.
- Vary your route if you're getting bored. To increase your fitness, add a route with some hills or changes in terrain. Or alternate routes on different days of the week.
- Keep your workout interesting. Many people walk with a buddy or in groups for support and motivation.
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