Even if you aren’t ready to commit to some big complicated exercise regime walking daily can greatly increase your overall wellbeing and it comes naturally to all of us.

Walking is a full-body exercise that you already know how to do. There is no equipment to buy, no lesson to take, and you can do it anywhere.

We do realize that getting started and committing to any exercise takes motivation and dedication. Just take it one day at a time. Get up and get moving. See how you feel. Really check in with your body and notice what it’s telling you.

Whether you are walking inside on a treadmill or outdoors you can reap many amazing benefits. The outdoors give you the added bonuses of fresh air and sunshine to help your body detoxify and make some much needed Vitamin D.

Other health benefits of walking include:

• Stronger bones
• Improved balance
• Reduced risk of heart disease
• Lower risk of stroke
• Better cardiovascular fitness and improved heart health
• Lessening of depression and anxiety
• Helps regulate hormones
• Can be used as a social activity if you choose to walk with friends
• Reduced body weight and fat levels
• Better muscle strength
• Improvement of existing medical conditions

The more steps you can get in daily the better. Ideally, 30 minutes a day or more is perfect for the average person. If you are curious just how far you walk a pedometer or Fitbit can help you keep track and see how you are progressing.

Make sure to warm up and stretch beforehand if you are going to power walk. It can help ease pain and stiffness as well as to stave off injury. Stretching afterward can help greatly as well.

Proper shoes are important too

You wouldn’t drive your car around with old flat tires it would throw off the alignment and cause damage over time. Shoes are the same way with people. you need a good base on which to build so don’t skimp in the shoe department. Try them on and walk around. Make sure you are comfortable and supported.

For more lifestyle heart-healthy tips please keep checking back! You can follow us on Facebook as well as Twitter as well! www.tampacardio.com 813-975-2800.