Walking stands out as a superb and remarkably straightforward form of exercise. Whether you’re traveling or settled at home, it offers a fantastic route to fitness. Here are several reasons why I advocate walking:
- It’s gentler on the body compared to running, making it more enjoyable with quicker recovery times and a reduced risk of injury.
- Minimal gear is required—just a reliable pair of walking shoes.
- It’s inclusive for all fitness levels.
- Walking fits easily into any schedule; you can squeeze in steps between meetings, post-dinner, or during airport layovers.
- In warmer weather, walking keeps you cooler than running might, potentially saving you from needing an extra shower on a busy travel day.
- It provides an opportunity to explore new locations.
- Unlike a hotel gym, walking gives you privacy away from colleagues.
- Lastly, a brisk 30-minute walk at a 4 mph pace can burn roughly 100 calories for every 100 pounds of body weight, which is quite efficient!
Choosing the Right Footwear
The most critical gear for walking is a pair of well-fitting shoes. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort or injury, which could discourage you from continuing your walking regimen. Opt for shoes that fit well rather than going for the most expensive pair. Instead of trendy fashion outlets, head to a specialized running store where trained professionals can help you find the best fit.
Kickstarting Your Walking Program
Many fitness experts suggest aiming for 10,000 steps a day, a practical goal that aligns with general health guidelines recommending 60 minutes of daily exercise. This typically translates to about five miles, depending on your stride.
A simple pedometer, available for $15 to $25, can effectively track your steps. Choose one that’s comfortable and lightweight; features like a built-in clock can help keep you on schedule, especially during tight agendas.
Start by wearing your pedometer to gauge your average daily steps. Don’t be disheartened if initial numbers are low; there are numerous ways to integrate more steps into your day, such as parking further away, opting for stairs over escalators, and using your layover to walk.
After establishing your daily average, set a plan to reach 10,000 steps. If new to regular exercise, aim to increase your count by 150 to 250 steps daily. More active individuals might target an increase of 300 to 400 steps.
For instance, if you start at 2,500 steps daily, you could reach your 10,000-step goal in about 30 days. If you have more time, set intermediate milestones at 5,000 and 7,500 steps.
Incorporate walking into your daily travel routine, and soon walking 10,000 steps a day will become a regular part of your lifestyle!
