How to Walk For Fitness

It was a physical awakening, that magical day as a toddler that you took your very first step. Even though you were clumsy and hesitant, it opened up a whole new world for you.

Actually, at first you were really bad at it. You tumbled and fell, ran into things, and tried again. The only injuries you ever got were not from over-use, but more likely scrapes and bruises that seem to come with the learning process of walking. It wasn't long before you could stop thinking about what you were doing, and walking became as natural as breathing.

Now that you are an adult, you have to consider such things as doing too much too soon and getting yourself injured. Slow and steady is the best way to work yourself into a fitness walking properly as well as adopting the ideal walking technique and posture.

Sure, you walk naturally, but over the years you may have developed bad posture habits that might come back to haunt you once you begin a more physically demanding walking program.

First, you should schedule a physical examination and talk with your doctor about your fitness plans, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or chest pain.

Make sure your shoes fit properly and are constructed properly for walking. For instance some shoes are designed for side to side movement (like tennis shoes). You want a running or walking shoe that is specifically designed for straight-ahead walking.

Things to consider in your walking form:

Your aim is to keep your back straight and not lean too far backward or forward. This is where your overall posture comes into play. If your posture has always been good, keeping your back straight will not be a problem. If not, it just means you have to concentrate a bit more on the "straight back" technique.

Look straight ahead and not at the ground. This will help ensure that you are maintaining proper posture. If you are looking down at the ground, you are most likely leaning too far forward.

Try and keep your strides compact and uniform. Do not over-stride (take too long of a stride).

Always begin your walking workout with 10 minutes or so of very slow walking before getting into your steady pace.

Sometimes it is also beneficial to stretch after the initial warm-up.

Use the same method to cool down at the end of the walk.

Once you develop a proper walking technique, you will find that it becomes second nature, and you will be getting the most benefit possible from your walking program.

Single lifestyle website featuring articles on relationships, dating, finances, travel, solo travel, the outdoors. cooking, cooking for one, nutrition and much more.

Visit http://www.SingleSizzle.com for some great articles on a variety of topics of interest to single people of all ages.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_Fauteux