
Fitness Tip | HATE EXERCISE? TRY WALKING
Many of us associate exercise with the intense grind of competitive running, weightlifting or hour long aerobic workouts yet you don't need to devote an hour to intense exercise in order to get its cardiovascular and muscle-pumping benefits, though - walking for 30 minutes may work just as well.
A brisk walk in the park, shopping centre or through your neighbourhood with a friend is a great way to get your cardiovascular exercise.
Like other exercises, walking boosts good (HDL) cholesterol levels, reducing your risk of a heart attack. It also helps stabilize blood pressure and reduces your risk for heart disease, stroke, sleep apnoea, type 2 diabetes, depression and certain types of cancers, including breast cancer.
To get the most out of your walk, keep your body straight - including your spine - and walk in moderate, but powerful strides. Avoid striding out too far, which can tire you out quickly, and aim for a toe to heel strike action.
For an additional "weight-lifting" workout, hold small, portable weights in your hands and pump them while you walk.
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