Move Those Feet!

Understanding the Needs of the Walker

Here are a few pointers that may help you get off those feet and start walking!

Walkers don’t need…

• A gym membership - if it rains, then you can walk in place at home.
• A workout team - One other person for safety and motivation is all you need!
• A set time of day - Legs and feet can move any time.
• Special exercise outfits - A good pair of walking shoes is imperative; otherwise, anything goes as long as it’s appropriate to the weather, to your comfort, and to society’s rules in general (no streaking!).
• An expensive piece of training equipment - Ok, so you might consider your body as a “priceless” commodity.
• Lessons or professional supervision - If you want to learn how to do Chi Walking, Nordic Walking, or Power Walking, you might want to read up on a few things. Otherwise, just get up off those feet and walk!
• Athletic contests - Enjoy your walk, don’t compete. No one was ever labeled a “losing walker” that we know about.

Walkers do need…

• A safe place to walk - Especially if you lack a walking buddy or buddies.
• A walking buddy - See above.
• To set walking “appointments” - If you make an appointment to meet someone, you usually meet them, right? Walking is just part of that meeting.
• Comfortable clothes & good shoes - Nothing fancy.
• A pedometer or step counter - Try for 10,000 steps a day!
• The approval of a doctor to begin - Especially if you’ve been a desk or couch potato for a few months and your blood pressure is a bit high.
• Goals & rewards for motivation - Although walking isn’t competitive for the most part, you might want to set some goals. If you can work your way up to 10,000 steps a day, treat yourself to a facial or some other ‘gift’ that doesn’t involve food.

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