Finally! The summer heat is behind us. Now that it has started to get a bit cooler, walking for exercise is becoming more pleasant and safer. If you have been avoiding the heat from the comfort of your couch, it’s time to get up and start MOVING YOUR FEET.
With the fall season in full swing, walking outside for exercise can really make a difference for your physical and mental health. Here are some important reminders regarding this most common form of exercise.
The most important thing to do is MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF!!! Whether you are young or old, a regular dose of exercise is one of the most important factors that can improve a person’s physical and mental health.
Walking vs. walking for exercise… is there a difference? Yes. To be clear, walking around your house or at work usually doesn’t count as exercise. And walking the dog to the corner and back doesn’t count either. Walking as an exercise has to be sustained for at least 20 minutes and performed at a pace that actually makes you breathe a little harder and sweat a little too.
Here is a pro tip: WEAR GOOD SNEAKERS! So many of my new patients limp into my office wearing shoes that just aren’t supportive enough for sustained walking or other daily walking activities. Good sneakers cost a little more, but usually are well worth the extra investment.
Be preventative…STRETCH! If you have an ache or tightness in your feet, ankles or legs, get it checked before you start committing to a wellness walking plan. Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis can really spiral out of control if you ignore the early signs. A simple stretch can prevent these painful conditions.
Walking for exercise is so easy and cost effective. The health benefits are amazing if done consistently, just make sure to check with your doctor if you have any serious health conditions before you start walking the hills of Tyler State Park. Now set some modest goals and MOTIVATE!
Here is the recap: MAKE TIME, WEAR GOOD SNEAKERS, STRETCH, MOTIVATE AND MOVE YOUR FEET. Call Sohl Foot & Ankle at 267-699-3839 and we’ll do our part to help you walk to better health.