Walking is a great way to get in shape—and it’s perfect for fitness newbies and devotees alike. Aside from a quality pair of walking shoes, there’s no fancy equipment and getting started is as easy as putting one foot in front of the other—literally. But having some pointers in your fitness arsenal can help you stay on track with your walking plan and help you see and feel results sooner rather than later. That’s where this special guide comes in: It’s packed with all of the expert tips and effective workouts to keep you walking strong for life.
WHY WALK? • DON’T LET ANYONE TELL YOU DIFFERENT: WHEN REGULAR STROLLS BECOME A PART OF YOUR WEEKLY ROUTINE, YOU’LL EXPERIENCE A WHOLE SLEW OF HEALTH-BOOSTING BENEFITS.
The INCREDIBLE POWER of WALKING • Walking is good for the body and the soul. How do we know? Well, there are the piles of research studies that reveal its health benefits: weight management, a tougher skeleton, a stronger heart, a sturdier brain. We heard from more than 1,500 readers who answered our call to tell us why they walk—from staying fit to healing a broken heart. Hear their stories, then find your own reason to get started.
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Body Benefits Moving More • Is a simple walk really that good for you? Yes, and here’s the reason: It’s a full-body exercise that improves your health from head to toe. Read on to find out why walking makes your body so happy—and how to get the most out of every step you take.
EVERY EXCUSE (BUSTED!) • For most of us, it’s easier to talk ourselves out of working out than it is to talk ourselves into it. Use these strategies to get moving and reclaim your willpower.
Savvy Ways to Fuel Up • Walking is a powerful way to take care of your body physically, but you also need to nourish it by eating healthy foods. Knowing what to eat, how much, and when can be confusing when it comes to low-impact workouts. Not sure where to start? These tips will get you there.
WALK OFF WEIGHT • FOR ALL THE ATTENTION THAT RUNNING, CIRCUIT TRAINING, AND BOOT CAMP CLASSES GET, SOMETIMES ALL YOU NEED TO DO TO LOSE WEIGHT IS PUT ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER.
Let’s Get OUT THERE • These days, it can seem like exercise is getting more niche and complicated by the minute (surfboard aerobics, we’re looking at you). Walking is one workout that’s still simple, cost-effective, and right for just about everyone—all you need are a good pair of shoes and the open road. Even better, it’s a super-effective way to lose weight. Whether you’re a fitness devotee or not exercising at the moment, this plan is designed to help you reach your weight-loss goals, and as a bonus, you’ll get a major mood boost. So lace up, and get started!
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WORK OUT Anywhere, ANY TIME • Whether you want to enjoy time outside or stay comfortable and climate controlled inside, we’ve got the perfect way to jumpstart your walking routine. Try one (or both) of these plans—designed by walking pros—to slim down and get energized.
POSTWALK STRETCH REBOOT
Get Stronger As You Walk • Adding toning to cardio walks means you’ll not only build healthy muscles but also develop a stronger core that can help with posture and back pain. Plus, building more lean muscle will keep your metabolism chugging efficiently. To firm up fast, add any—or all—of these workouts to your exercise routine.
6-WEEK Slim-Down PLAN • When it comes to walking, you want a simple, effective routine that fits into your life, and that’s exactly what this plan is designed for. Exercise scientists have discovered that shorter workouts can rev your metabolism higher and...