Walking For Weight Loss
Sometimes the most effective answer to a problem is the most obvious, and this certainly applies to weight loss. You see, whichever weight loss plan you opt for, you stand a much better chance of success with it if you also start or increase exercise at the same time. But what if you don't like exercise? Or you can't afford to take out a gym membership? Then walking is your answer. Is it effective at helping you lose weight? You can bet your life it is. Many people look upon walking as a near-sedentary exercise of little value, but how wrong they are! Walking is one of the best exercises you can do - and probably the best way to lose weight. An average person walking at just 3 miles per hour for 30 minutes burns over 120 calories in doing so. Increase that speed to 4 miles per hour and the calories burnt shoots up to over 180. So if you walk for just 30 minutes a day you'll pretty soon notice the difference. And that won't be just weight loss through the burning of calories. You'll feel fitter and healthier, more relaxed and confident, and your posture will improve, to name just a few benefits. Because walking doesn't just make you fitter and your legs stronger. It also strengthens your bones and joints, improves your cardiovascular system and physical co-ordination, strengthens your immune system and lowers blood pressure. It will also help you manage stress and release tension, and make you sleep better at night, so you awake feeling fully refreshed. It reduces your susceptibility to cancer and stroke, and even back pain. And as if that were not enough, you can walk almost anywhere and at any time, and of course it's free. But what if you have a busy lifestyle and find it difficult to fit 30 minutes of walking into your day? Well, the 30 minutes doesn't have to be done all at once, though it's better if it is. If you take a bus or train to work, get off one or two stops before your destination and walk the rest of the way. If you drive to work, park as far away from the building entrance as possible and walk the difference. Walk to see a work colleague rather than use the telephone. Use the stairs instead of the lift or elevator. Walk around the room when you're on the telephone, and at home during the commercial break when watching television. If you drive children to school, walk them there instead - this will be doing them a favour as well as yourself. Walk to the local shop instead of using the car. Get up early and go out for a walk before breakfast. Always be on the look- out for an excuse to walk. But always remember - walking properly is just as important. The more walking you do the more it will become second nature to you to walk properly. Always have an upright posture and swing your arms naturally. Avoid if possible carrying anything. If you have to, use a back pack or rucksack. Breathing is important. Breathe deeply and relax, inhaling and exhaling through the nose as far as possible for maximum benefit. This method of walking for weight loss is very effective and will significantly increase your chances of success in your chosen weight loss program. As to which program is right for you, click here for our review of the three leading programs, which will help put you on the right track. |
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