Walking is one of the easiest ways to get the exercise you need to stay healthy. Experts recommend at least 2½ hours of moderate activity (such as brisk walking, cycling, or yard work) a week.
You can make walking an important part of your life by getting friends and family to join you and finding new ways to put steps in your day. Joining a walking group and setting goals to walk will help build walking into a regular part of a healthy routine.
Some people like to track their steps through a phone app or a pedometer. Using one of these step counters can help to set short and long-term goals for how much you walk in a day. Other people like to set alarms in their phone to remind them to walk. No matter how you choose to remind yourself to get up and walk, doing a bit each day improves overall health, mood and creates good habits.
Here are some tips to be safe while outside walking:
- Know your surroundings. Walk in a well-lit, safe place.
- Carry a cell phone for emergencies.
- Wear comfortable shoes and socks that cushion and support your feet.
- Pay attention to your walking surface. Use sidewalks and paths.
- If you usually walk outside and the weather is bad, take comfortable shoes to the mall and walk several laps inside.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after you are active. Take a water bottle with you when you walk. This is important when it’s hot out and when you do intense exercise.
For more information visit: https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=tp23026&#tp23027
