This is the first winter I've ever exercised regularly since I can remember, and I've noticed this past week that I'm starting to actually look forward to it, on some days. Now this is a huge change for me, and I don't know if it's because I'm stuck in the house more and just bored, or that I like the way I feel after I exercise, or both, but last week I noticed this change in attitude. My thoughts have shifted from trying to find excuses or talk myself out of it, to not really debating it and just going, to now actually thinking, "Hmmm I don't mind this and I feel better once it's done". I wonder if I'll feel the same way when the days get longer and the weather gets warmer!
One thing I plan to do more of this Spring is more walking. So I came across this article about the proper way to walk and found some interesting tips. Here's what the experts say are the top 10 mistakes people make when they walk for exercise:
1.
Overstriding- use shorter quicker steps instead, rolling through each step with your back foot to push off to the next step.
2.
Wearing the wrong shoes- Walking shoes should be light weight, flexible, not over 1 year old and the right size (not too small). See my
previous post about finding the right excercise shoes.
3.
Flapping or slapping your feet to the ground- Again, the right shoe helps alleviate this problem, also strengthening your shines and ankles by doing toe raises.
4.
Not using your arms- Your arms should be bent at 90 degrees and move naturally back and forth as you walk.
5.
"Chicken Winging"- Swinging your elbows too far away from your body. They should be close.
6.
Keeping your head down- You should look up as you walk, with your chin parallel to the ground, eyes focused about 10-20 feet ahead.
7.
Leaning- You shouldn't lean forward or backward too far when walking. Kep your body straight but relaxed. Think "suck in your gut, tuck in your butt".
8.
The wrong clothing- You should wear reflective clothing if you walk at night, dress in layers of loose clothing. Wear a hat to keep you warm or protected from the sun.
9.
Not drinking enough- Besides drinking water throughout the day ten minutes before your walk, drink a glass of water. Drink another glass or two after you finish. For longer walks, carry water with you and drink every 20 minutes.
10.
Over training- Don't walk so long and so often that you burn out. Take a day off now and then to let your body repair.
Here is the
full article.I'm looking forward to walking more when the weather is warmer. Only a few more weeks for most of us ! What other tips or advice do you all have about walking ?
Have a great week, everyone and keep up the exercise !
Dell- a Lumen