Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. Walking is sometimes overlooked as a form of exercise, walking briskly can help you build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier.

Walking is the perfect low impact way to exercise. It’s easy to do, you don’t need any special equipment and you can start at the fitness level you’re at.

If you havn’t exercised for a while or are embarking on a fitness plan don’t forget to visit your doctor to have a physical assessment this will rule out any physical conditions that may cause you any problems. Another reason to visit your doctor is to get a baseline, then you will have a starting point and will be able to monitor your improvement. When starting out start slow, even10 minutes of walking daily has been documented as being beneficial.

How to Get In The Habit Of Walking

Getting and staying in the habit of going for a walk each day can be a challenge. We spend most of our time sitting down, this is not good for our body and can lead to a host of health problems. Most of us sit at work, we eat sitting down, and because of our busy lives we are exhausted by the end of the day and watch television or sit and read.

A great place to start is to find a walking track you enjoy, preferably around your neighbourhood. If this is not possible because of your safety, weather or other factors save your walk for the weekends. You may find it is more convenient to walk before or after work, some people even walk at lunchtime. Be creative!

Taking the same track every day helps form the habit. It’s also encouraging when you notice that you can walk the same loop faster or with less effort over time. It proves that you’re making a difference and are getting stronger and your fitness is improving.

Track your progress with a Fitbit or Smart Watch.

Listening to your favourite music, podcast or audio books is also helpful. Upbeat music is great, gives you fun tempo to keep in time to.

Consider walking with other people. Find a walking group in your area, or talk a friend or neighbour into becoming your walking buddy. Not only is it more fun to walk when you have someone to talk to, it will also give you accountability.

It’s much easier to commit to a walking workout when you know that other people are waiting for you and relying on you to join them. This is a safer option too.

Give these tips a try and see if they help you make walking a daily habit and an integral part of your health, your fitness, and your life.