Walk This Way to a Healthier You

A daily walk is a simple, healthy habit. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular brisk walking helps prevent heart disease and high blood pressure, maintains a healthy weight and strengthens bones and muscles. Here are some ways to boost the benefits of your stroll.

Warm up and cool down

While walking is a low-impact exercise, it’s best to start off slowly before setting your workout pace. Leave five minutes to decrease your pace and cool down before you finish.

Walk, don’t run, to the hills

If you have a hilly neighborhood, use the inclines to your advantage. Walking uphill will increase the intensity of your walk and give your leg muscles an extra workout.

Take a hike

Find walking paths or hiking trails near you. You don’t need to summit the closest mountain, but a trek through the woods will add variation and nature to your routine.

Bring a buddy

Exercising with a friend not only makes the experience more enjoyable, it also increases your motivation. And if you’re going for that hike, it’s best to have a partner with you.