Getting Fit on a Budget

Image by Walking for Health via Flickr

Walking is an ideal form or exercise. It doesn’t require spa membership or specialized equipment and costs little to do. All you need is a good pair of shoes!

Did you know:

Walking:

• Improves cardiovascular endurance

• Tones muscles of the lower body

• Burns calories (about 107 if walking 4 1/2 miles per hour)

• Reduces risk of heart disease

Tips for picking the right pair of shoes:

• Make sure the shoes you purchase fit properly. The balls of your feet should rest exactly at the point where the toe end of the shoe bends during walking.

• Avoid high-top shoes that cover the entire ankle. They limit your foot's ability to move freely and naturally.

• Select shoes with plenty of cushioning in the soles to absorb the impact of your walking.


How to walk for best results:

• Swing your arms freely, in sync with the opposite leg.

• Don’t look down as you walk. You will carry your weight improperly if you do.

• Don’t carry weights or dumbbells while you walk.

• Walk briskly.

• Walk on a good surface. A cushioned or rubberized track is ideal. Grass is also good, but you should watch out for dips and hidden holes! Avoid mall walking and other concrete surfaces if you can. This type of surface will not absorb much of the impact your body will experience. If you do walk on concrete, be sure to wear a highly cushioned shoe.

Irene Helen Zundel is a freelance writer, educator and mother, and an expert in child development, home schooling and creative parenting and home making.
Visit her online at http://www.irenehelenzundel.com

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