Fitness: Walking for wellness
What do you need to know to start a walking program?
You don't have to walk all at once. You can split it up. It's fine to walk in spurts of 10 minutes or more at a time. If you use a pedometer, you might be surprised to see how many steps you take by simply doing chores and errands or by taking walking breaks during the day. For more information, see:
There are many ways to walk more without going on a long walk. Use the stairs instead of the elevator, or park farther away from work or a store. Instead of e-mailing or phoning a coworker or neighbor, walk over. When you meet with someone or visit with a friend, suggest taking a walk instead of staying inside.
To get the heart-healthy benefits of walking, you need to walk briskly enough to increase your heart rate and breathing, but not so fast that you can't talk comfortably.
Test Your Knowledge
You don't have to walk 2½ hours all at once. You can get the same benefits by walking in spurts of 10 minutes or more throughout your day and week.
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Why walk for wellness?
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| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: August 26, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Heather Chambliss, PhD - Exercise Science/Weight Management | |
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