by Anthony Megna

Created on: June 30, 2008   Last Updated: May 24, 2012

What are one of two exercises that some older people can do that will benefit the whole body? Walking. That's right, plain old simple walking. Swimming is the other, but not every senior can get access to a pool or lives by the ocean or lake.  As we get older, the human body can't stand the stress it used to in the younger days. It is easier to break bones, easier to pull muscles, getting tired earlier happens as well. Walking is a no-brainer. Assuming one has the right walking shoes and a safe place to walk, then this is the exercise for the senior set.

I always thought swimming was the best exercise for the whole body. Swimming is terrific, but it is just not as accessible as walking. If you have access to a pool and you love to swim, then by all means go ahead, but not everyone does. On the other hand, most people do have access to a local mall, where there are walking clubs galore. It is fun to join up with a group and socialize while burning some calories. After a while, one doesn't even feel they are exercising!

It doesn't matter if you haven't walked in years, one never forgets how to. When starting out, make sure you have a good walking shoe. Also, loose fitting clothes are important, as the last thing you want to be doing is pulling at yourself during your walk. You don't need stretch marks either, so put those sweats on and get walking.

As I mentioned earlier, it is fun to walk in a group, but one doesn't have to. I am lucky as I have a nice park across the street from me and the weather is nice year round. I live in Las Vegas, and we have more sunny days here than almost any other city in the United States. The summers can be hot, but if one walks first thing in the morning or when the sun begins to set it is tolerable. Also, another big benefit is no bugs!

My suggestion is to start out very easy. I mean very, very easy. This is especially important if you haven't done any exercise in years. Also, it wouldn't hurt to check with your doctor and let him or her know what you are going to do. Even if you are on medication, usually some sort of exercise can't hurt. Again, for safety's sake, check.

Once you have stretched a bit, then begin the walk at a leisurely pace for the first few days. I hate regimens, so I listen to what my body can handle and go from there. After the first few days, you will want to begin your walk, as it can become addicting. The addiction factor is all the unused chemicals in your brain like endorphins that make your body and mind feel good. Believe me, it is the best natural high one can get.

If you stick with it, you will begin to feel more energetic. People will also begin to remark that you haven't looked better in years. You will also firm up your muscles and lose some weight. If you are on a diet, then your weight will drop off that much quicker. I don't really believe in diets all that much, so I just eat enough and slow enough until I feel full. Thirty pounds dropped off a few years ago, and I have never felt better!

There is nothing to lose by walking, except pounds and inches, and you definitely will feel better. Your ego will benefit as well when you begin to get those compliments on how great you look. Go ahead, give it a shot and you won't be disappointed.

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