Do you like (or need) to keep one foot on the ground? Low impact movements like walking may be the exercise for you. Walking allows one or both feet to touch the ground with every step. Not only is there less force and stress on your body, but walking is a simple way to start exercising if you’re not used to being active.
- Start simple – try walking around the block. Time yourself and try to beat that time on your next walk. Work your way up by increasing the number of blocks and number of days you walk. Walking 30 minutes a day can help lower chronic disease risk factors like high blood pressure.
- Find a friend. A regular walking buddy keeps you motivated on days when you’d rather stay home. Better yet, join a walking club for even more social interaction and motivation.
- Keep it up!
Source: American Heart Association; American Stroke Association; BlueCross BlueShield of Texas