Walking Fitness For Beginners: Shoes | Weight Loss | Increase Walking

By Patricia | September 12, 2010
Fitness Walking

Many a times there is a constant debate when people take up walking for fitness and that is whether one should be walking fit or walking fast. However recent studies have shown that walking can be just as physically challenging as running. It is observed that if one increases their walking speed from 3.5 to 5.0 mph then they tend to burn almost 50% more calories over a given distance  by just walking which is almost similar to the number of calories burnt by running the same distance. In fact many fitness experts always advice both professional walkers as well as beginners who want to get fit by walking to try and alternate their walking regime between longer and slower walks which are known to help with insulin sensitivity and build endurance and brisker walks which tend to help one achieve their long term fitness goals, has anti-aging benefits and also results in weight loss. The most important tip for beginners who want to increase their walking is to first consul their doctor before taking up walking or any other form of cardio vascular exercise to check if the same is suitable for their body health and their medical state. The most important gear for those who want to take up walking seriously as a form of exercise are walking shoes and the walking shoes fit should be comfortable so as to allow the foot to be flexible while walking and also support it well to prevent ankle sprains and blisters. The correct walking shoes fit also helps protect ones back, knees and legs as they are all involved with a walking workout. Walking is known to be an ideal form of exercise for those who want to lose weight or even for those who want to be fit and improve their overall health. In fact walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise that is easiest to follow as it does not require any specialized training or gear. Some of the tips of fit walking for beginners include keeping a track of one’s body posture and ensuring that the back is straight at all times. This is important because slouching while walking can lead to serious health problems which could even become a concern in the future. One should walk straight and tall with their arms swinging and their head up, keeping the shoulders relaxed. Beginners should limit their total walking duration to 20 minutes initially and then after following this routine for almost a week.

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