I read an interesting article in the latest AARP Bulletin that said that walking is the “only exercise you will ever need.” Well, it’s free and somewhat easy (depending on your physical state) but I wouldn’t say it is the only exercise you will ever need.
However, it is a fairly easy way to start to exercise. For people who are intimidated by gyms or classes (or even buying a treadmill) walking provides a low level of cardiovascular training. If you follow government guidelines, they recommend getting 30 minutes of exercise several times a week. Walking can do that for you.
But, you do need resistance training as well. Resistance training (lifting weights) will build up your bones, making them stronger, plus obviously will increase your strength. Many complaints from “older folks” have to do with not being able to do the things they used to… This comes from a combination of weight gain, loss of general flexibility and loss of strength.
By alternating moderate strength training, walking and stretching, you can address some of those issues. By moderate strength training, I mean getting a pair of dumb bells of a low weight – maybe only six, ten or twelve pounds and working out with them three times a week. Doing simple exercises can make a huge difference in how you feel.
Get on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday weight training schedule and throw in Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday “dates” with your walking shoes. Walking can be a social event as well since there are many walking clubs around the country. Checkout Meetup.com to find some folks to join, or start your own clique.
The important thing is to start doing something, and to be consistent with it.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Great advice. It’s the most basic of all exercises and the easiest too.