NOT FOUND: 1101-january-nsn-final-new_Page_05_Image_0012.jpgThroughout my many years of being involved in fitness, either as a coach, instructor or enthusiast, I have tried just about everything that has come across the fitness airwaves. You name the video, the band, ball or strange looking piece of equipment – I have used them. Plus, I’ve tried (or even taught) everything from Jazzercise to Zumba. While I enjoy most types of workouts, I have chosen to narrow it down to my top choices for my personal fitness regimen: walking and resistance training. Of all the crazy and not so crazy types of classes and regimens, with or without equipment, I have returned to basic walking and free weights.
December marked my 54th birthday and I have been exercising regularly for 40 of those. I am happy to say that by walking six to seven days a week and working out with weights at least three days a week, I have maintained my goal weight (give or take five pounds) for over three years now.
Walking is the most recommended exercise regimen because you can do it anywhere, anytime and it doesn’t require a lot of “extras”. It’s good for your heart and lungs and gets you that vitamin D you need when even a little sun is out. There are even exercise DVDs out that consist of a walking program in your living room. While I will admit I haven’t tried those, I have heard they are quite effective. Check the Internet for a fitness walking DVD.
The beauty of walking is that you can do it alone, with a partner, with your dog, your family or a larger group. There are walking and hiking clubs throughout the city. Last year, I wrote to you about mall walking and I continue to meet folks who are avid attendees to the indoor walking craze. Check with your doctor, of course, before you begin a new exercise program. If you received a gift card for Christmas, perhaps you can buy a pedometer or walking shoes to get you started.
To compliment your walking program, I highly recommend adding some resistance training. A set of small dumbbells or resistance bands can give you a great workout in the privacy of your own home. When you travel, most hotels have gyms, as well as equipment you can have brought to your room. Truthfully, there is no getting around the convenience of fitting walking and resistance training into your lifestyle.
My challenge for you this New Year is to take the 10,000-step challenge and find out how enjoyable and beneficial walking can be. The average office worker takes up to 5,000 steps per day, so you may find it interesting to see how many steps you actually take. Research has proven that taking 10,000 steps can help you lose weight, improve cardiovascular health and aid in the prevention of diabetes.
You can add steps to your day by taking the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator. Park a little further down the lot. Walk the long way to the mailbox. There are so many ways you can increase your “steppage” without taking away from your day. You know you can do it, you simply have to decide to.
Take the challenge. I will join you. Let’s see how much better we’ll feel at the end of the month by adding extra steps to each day. Be part of the 10,000 steps a day club and impress your friends and family.