Lose Weight Walking

You're trying to lose weight, and you know that diet and exercise are the two most important components. Walking is an excellent way to jump-start a weight loss program. Walking can be done with no special skills or equipment, and is an ideal exercise for just about everyone. How can you get started with a walking exercise plan?

Just Do It!

Yes, it's that simple: just walk out the door and down the street or sidewalk (assuming you live in a place that has a safe place). Walk at a pace that forces you to expend some effort, but not so fast that you're seriously out of breath. Try 15 minutes the first day, and add 5 minutes per day until you reach your "walking time" goal.

Practical Considerations

Walking is easy and requires little, but there are some things to keep in mind. Wear comfortable shoes - they don't have to be top-of-the-line and expensive, but wear tennis shoes that don't rub blisters on your feet and that have adequate support.

Mind your posture when you walk. Stand up tall and pull your shoulders back and your stomach in. Look straight ahead. You can even swing your arms for some additional cardio workout.

Keep Walking ...

After you get started, you will want to come up with a walking plan so that you can build your fitness level. Remember, the more you push yourself, the more weight you will lose!

For the most effective weight loss, you should plan on walking at least 5 days per week, 45 -60 minutes per session. Pick up your pace after 5 minutes or so of a warm-up period.

Once your walks are becoming "old hat," feel proud: you're building endurance! Now is the time to add new elements. Try walking while swinging weights with your arms, or try walking in a hilly area (or on an incline if you're walking on a treadmill). Another way to build endurance is to pick up your pace a bit more. If you have a regular route you walk, you can time yourself to see how long it takes you to walk your route. Aim for a lower time with each workout.

Follow these tips, and in no time your weight will begin to drop and your fitness level will climb. Congratulations on taking the first step to a healthier you!