I can remember this past CHRISTmas I had alot of family over; thus every room in the house was being utilized which kept me from doing my usual Shaun T-Insanity or P90X workouts. I’d actually began to feel bad because I knew I hadn’t been working out very hard because of the holidays and letting a day go by without some sort of actual activity was driving me up the wall (smile). So, I’d decided to put on my walking shoes, pack up my puppy, and take my chances with the park and fortunately it was open. So I did a 60 min. 3 mile walk and it was absolutely wonderful. I walked at a pace that got my heart rate going and worked up a sweat. I don’t walk very often, but at times like that it’s great to know that walking is another alternative to making everyday count towards your goals.

Walking is a very natural form of exercise. It’s simple, easy, fun, and something you’ve been knowing how to do since you were 6 mos. old or older. The health benefits including lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of disease are wonderful. But I also like the outdoors factor of walking. Besides the park, another place I like to walk is on the lake at sunset. It’s beautiful and peaceful scenery and it gives me a chance to clear my head and relax my mood so it also helps with stress and anxiety. Just like any other workout, preparation is key to a successful walking plan. You must warm-up and stretch for 5 minutes before as well as cool down after to prevent injury. Wear proper walking shoes and proper workout wear. Make sure your clothes are comfortable and light so you don’t feel weighed down while you’re walking. If you like to walk at night, make sure you wear reflective tape so motorist on the road can see you. Form is everything when getting in shape. Your fitness routine will never help you on your journey if form is ever compromised. Make sure your arms are in a swinging position, head held high, focus ahead, tighten your core, and walk in a heal to toe movement. You can make this more fun by changing up scenery every once in a while to stay motivated and keep it fun. Also, you can ask a friend to come along and take a walk with you, or like me, bring your puppy. If you have kids or babysitting, bring them along with you and keep your infants in the stroller as you walk. The possibilities to get in shape are endless and walking is a great way to do so. So if you’re a fitnista on a budget like me, always remember, it doesn’t cost a grip to get in shape. Even if you don’t have a nearby park, just walking around your neighborhood for the same amount of time, with proper movement, at a good distance within your target heart rate zone will work just as good. So, good luck and get in shape!!!