Walking To Weight Loss

Do's And Don'ts When Walking

Walking is a great form of keeping active, from low to high intensity it allows a great form of exercise. There are some do’s and don’ts to be aware of when using walking as a form of exercise to prevent injury and ensure you’re getting the most out of your walks/hikes.

Do’s when walking

Remember to keep hydrated. The same goes for any form of exercise, remember to keep your body hydrated increasing your water intake depending on how much exercise your doing, especially on a warmer day. Staying hydrated when exercising helps prevent fatigue, improves muscle function and increases endurance.

Focus on breathing. When doing longer distance or higher intensity walks, focusing on your breathing is key. Inhaling through the nose rather than the mouth, allowing you to steady your breathing to a lower paste and regulate your heart rate. This will support your endurance and making your exercise more manageable. If you want to learn more on the benefits of breathing through your nose, watch this short clip.

Engage your core. Engaging your core while exercising will decrease any back pain by improving your posture, enhance your stability and tone your body.

Don’ts when walking

Wearing the right walking gear. Wearing the right shoes is vital when walking, whether it’s a long hike or a short walk. Trainers can be suitable for shorter walks, but if your going on a longer walk or hike wearing walking shoes or hiking boots can offer a lot more support. Walking shoes have a thicker heel than usual shoes, improving your stability but still flexible and easy to walk in. If walking is one of your main forms of exercise, getting a pair of walking shoes will improve your support and prevent injury or muscle aches.

Don’t be unprepared. Bringing a small rucksack on your walks is always a good idea. Having food, water, simple first aid gear, cash or even spare clothes depending on what length walks your going on will allow you to be prepared for anything. Especially for longer hikes, staying hydrated and fuelled with food will boost your endurance and bring you more benefits from the exercise.

So, be prepared, use the right techniques and have fun! Walking is a great form of exercise, easy to fit into your schedule and completely free.