Are you looking to improve your overall well-being but don’t know where to begin? Why not start with walking? You may think, ‘Walking…I already know how to walk!’ So what’s stopping you from making this a regular part of your day? Here are some tips and tricks to get you into a walking routine!
If your ultimate goal is to form a running routine, walking is a great place to start. It is a fantastic way to get your body, mind and schedule used to a new exercise routine. Walking produces a similar motion as running for your legs and body. It is a gentle way to ease in and prepare your body for your running goals.
#1 Baby Steps
Begin with a routine that your body and schedule will allow for without being too overwhelming. Start small. Call up your neighbor and take a stroll around the block together. Feel like you’ve mastered your neighborhood? Increase your distance in comfortable, incremental amounts. Switch up the scenery to keep your routine fresh and exciting!
#2 Priority = YOU!
Taking time out of your day for yourself might seem difficult with work, school, family and other commitments. But now is the time to make YOU a priority and start scheduling “me time” in your daily routine. Timing is key! Look at your current schedule and see where you have time to walk, even if it is only a 15 minute stroll. Do you tend to put off tasks and save them for the end of the day or other times you are less likely to complete them? Try scheduling your walk at the beginning of your day so it won’t get pushed off until tomorrow. Or the next day. Or next week.
#3 Talk to the Experts!
New Balance Milwaukee provides free Good Form Walking clinics each month. During a Good Form Walking clinic, you have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a Good Form coach. Your coach will help you improve your technique, provide ways to prevent injury and give you other tips to make your health goals a success. It is useful to have a helping hand offering information and guiding you through a program.
#4 Proper Gear
Making sure you are outfitted with proper gear can be just as important as form and other aspects of walking. If you are walking in the wrong footwear, it could cause injury. Fit Specialists at our Stan’s and New Balance Milwaukee stores will fit you with the perfect athletic shoe, insole or accessory for your walking needs. If you have a foot condition or pain, there are many different types of footwear and orthotics that will allow you to enjoy walking. For example, the New Balance 1540 is a great walking shoe for someone with plantar fasciitis, among other foot conditions. Don’t let worn-out or ill-fitting footwear get in the way of a great workout.
Fresh Foam 980
You will need proper apparel to keep you comfortable while walking. New Balance has an extensive line of apparel with features such as moisture-wicking fabric, UV protection and other luxuries to keep you comfy while moving.
#5 Keep Track of Your Workouts
Write down the duration, distance and other details or your workouts, such as fatigue and soreness. This is a great way to watch your progress and build confidence along the way! You can also keep a workout journal and note which exercises or trails give you the most enjoyment or challenge.
#6. The Buddy System
If you feel nervous about starting a routine alone or just want some company, call a friend! Find a buddy with similar fitness or health goals, and share the experience with them. Having a workout buddy is like having your own personal cheerleader! You can encourage and motivate each other through those hard workouts and days you don’t want to stick to your walking routine.
You are now armed with the tools to start your walking routine! Remember, start small and slow. Make sure you have the right gear to get you to your goal. Keep track of your workouts; this will track your progress and build confidence! Ask a friend to join you on your health journey; they will be your biggest cheerleader! The most important part is that you have fun while starting your walking routine! Good luck!
For more information on Good Form Walking clinics, visit www.events.nbmke.com.
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