Yoga Articles Walking Exercise

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Some of the health benefits of taking up walking as an exercise are that it tends to raise the levels of bad cholesterol or low density lipoprotein and raises the levels of good cholesterol or high density lipoprotein. Walking is also an excellent form of exercise as it helps one lower and manage their blood pressure levels and also reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes or helps keep it in control. Those who are concerned about losing weight or maintaining a desired weight can also take up walking as exercise. Before beginning to walk on a regular basis, one should take the necessary precautions to prevent injuries in the form of muscle pulls or blisters. The first step to consider before taking up walking as an exercise is to invest in some comfortable footwear which allows the feet to bend naturally. One should also wear clothing that is loose and comfortable and takes into consideration the weather conditions. One should avoid wearing rubberized clothing as it tends to make one sweaty and does not allow the skin to breathe while walking. Those who plan on walking while it is still a little dark early in the morning should wear reflective tape or bright colors so that they are easily visible to the motorists. Before actually starting with walking one should sufficiently warm up with some stretching exercise is that the muscles are loosened enough. To do this one may even start walking in the same place and then gradually increase the pace as they feel themselves beginning to get warm. Stretching exercises that can be taken up both before and after walking should include calf stretches, side stretch, hamstring stretch and even quadriceps stretch. Most fitness experts will advise walking beginners to cool their bodies down after each and every walking session by walking slowly for at least five minutes towards the end of the walk. This would help in reducing the stress on the muscles as well as the heart. Thereafter one should repeat their stretching exercises as mentioned earlier.

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