by Lisbet Loiselle

Created on: October 29, 2009

Walking is the number one form of exercise that doctors recommend. It keeps your body working well in a mechanical sense, and keeps up cardiovascular health. Walking keeps everything in alignment, mainly because it keeps the hips and pelvis working in natural movement. Getting out for fresh air every day is not a bad thing either. How do we get into a natural walking rhythm, though? Is there a correct stride that we should adapt? There are a few basic, easy tips to follow and you'll be on your way to walking away that stress and maybe even some pounds.

First of all, a set of good walking shoes is a must. Choose a pair that has good support for your type of foot - a store helper should be able to help you out with this. When you actually set out to walk, take it easy. Don't try and speed walk, but don't lolly-gag around. A comfortable pace can be found by practicing. Your stride behind you should end up being longer than your stride ahead of you. So that means when you step out in front of you, don't over extend and take a long lunge-like step. Just take a natural step forward and the stride that ends up behind you will naturally end up being longer. When you push off the toe in the back, don't push too hard. Do not drag your foot either. Push off your toe, bring the knee up, and extend the leg out in front of you. Basically, the entire movement should be fluid and relaxed.

Once you have your stride down to where it feels comfortable, make sure you swing your arms in a medium swing. It's all about moderation, here, in that you shouldn't swing your arms up and down to 90 degree angles, but somewhere in between there and not swinging them at all. Once you have your stride "perfected", so-to-speak, get into a pace that is quick but not so fast that you can't hold a conversation with someone else. A great rule of thumb is to set a pace that allows you to speak full sentences but still feel a little out of breath.

Walking is a fantastic way to start a workout regimen because it is the most natural way for our bodies to move. Walking will help you begin to lead a healthy lifetsyle if you incorporate it into your daily life. Thirty minutes a day is a great place to start. If you take the tips mentioned above, and apply them to your walking every single day, you will be on the road to a happier and healthier life. Who knew walking could open the door to a better you? Get some great walking shoes, get out there, and get walking!

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