Walk Your Way To Weight Loss

 When was the last time you went for a walk?

Sounds like a silly question doesn’t it?

But really when was the last time you went for a walk?

How about you estimate how many steps you do in a day?

I bet whatever numbers you come up with is not even close to the real number.

According to the NHS A person can burn around 400 calories by walking 10,000 steps briskly (3-5mph) and I figured I couldn’t be too far froom that number boy was I wrong…

the average Briton walks between 3,000 and 4,000 steps a day but I have to admit some days I do way less than that (Hey I’m a driver).

As the weather is finally getting nicer why not try going our side and stretching your legs even if you do not achieve 10,000 steps a day the added movement is only going to help and unlike costly gym memberships walking will only cost you your time.

Plus walking can also be therapeutic giving you the opportunity to download your thoughts and feelings or you could come up with your next great idea. 

I know we are all so busy and fitting a walk into you day can seem impossible but believe me there are ways to sneak some extra steps into your daily your routine

    Get off the bus early and walk the rest of the way home or to work

    Walk to the station instead of taking the car or bus

    Take the stairs instead of the lift, or walk up escalators

    Invest in a shopping trolley and shop locally if you can

    Walk the children to school instead of driving

   

Tips for getting the most from you walk 

Find a walking partner, so you have someone to chat to as you walk or join a walking group

Get an MP3 player and listen to your favorite music or podcasts as you go Or even a book on tape I recently finished the Game of Thrones and have just started A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin which makes me look forward to going on my walks.

    Plan interesting walks or alternate your route so you don't get bored Invest in good shoes. Since these are the only expense and equipment you'll need, pay attention to the fit and quality of your shoes. 

 Always warm up by walking at a slow or normal walking pace for five minutes before picking up the tempo of your workout. 
 Pay attention to your heart rate and breathing. 

Walk at a pace that challenges you and elevates your heart rate, but don't overdo. You should be able to talk and carry on a conversation while you are exercising; if you can't, you may be working too hard. 

 Use good walking posture. maintaining the following posture when exercise walking: Swing your arms. Keep your head up, back straight, and abdomen flat. Point your toes straight ahead. Take long strides, but don't strain. 

 Consider getting a pedometer or a smart phone app to track the distance you've walked or the number of steps you've taken. Watching your improvement over time is a terrific source of motivation. 

 Be sure to carry water if you're walking long distances or are exercising in hot weather and if it is especially hot don't forget to wear a hat with a brim and to apply sunscreen to exposed areas.

How many steps do you estimate you walk a day?