continued:

Walking: Trim your waistline, improve your health

Set realistic goals

For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least two hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or one hour and 15 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity — preferably spread throughout the week — and strength training exercises at least twice a week.

As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day. If you can't set aside that much time, try two 15-minute sessions or three 10-minute sessions throughout the day.

Remember, though, it's OK to start slowly — especially if you haven't been exercising regularly. You might start with five minutes a day the first week, and then increase your time by five minutes each week until you reach at least 30 minutes.

Track your progress

Keeping a record of how many steps you take, the distance you walk and how long it takes can help you see where you started from and serve as a source of inspiration. Just think how good you'll feel when you see how many miles you've walked each week, month or year.

Record these numbers in a walking journal or log them in a spreadsheet or a physical activity app. Another option is to use an electronic device — such as a pedometer — to calculate steps and distance.

Stay motivated

Starting a walking program takes initiative. Sticking with it takes commitment. To stay motivated:

  • Set yourself up for success. Start with a simple goal, such as, "I'll take a 10-minute walk during my lunch break." When your 10-minute walk becomes a habit, set a new goal, such as, "I'll walk for 20 minutes after work." Soon you could be reaching for goals that once seemed impossible.
  • Make walking enjoyable. If you don't enjoy solitary walks, ask a friend or neighbor to join you. If you're invigorated by groups, join a health club.
  • Vary your routine. If you walk outdoors, plan several different routes for variety. If you're walking alone, be sure to tell someone which route you're taking.
  • Take missed days in stride. If you find yourself skipping your daily walks, don't give up. Remind yourself how good you feel when you include physical activity in your daily routine — and then get back on track.

Once you take that first step, you're on the way to an important destination — better health.

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References
  1. 2008 physical activity guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.health.gov/paguidelines/pdf/paguide.pdf. Accessed Jan. 31, 2013.
  2. Your guide to physical activity and your heart. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/obesity/phy_active.pdf. Accessed Jan. 31, 2013.
  3. Walking: A step in the right direction. Weight Control Information Network: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/walking.htm. Accessed Jan. 31, 2013.
  4. Iknoian T. Fitness Walking. 2nd ed. Champaign, Ill.: Human Kinetics; 2005:15.
HQ01612 April 18, 2013

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