| From the day we are born our parents look | | | | variety of configurations, but if you can |
| forward to our first steps. There is a reason | | | | find it and afford it one that inclines and |
| we don't usually take those first steps until | | | | allows for a varied degree of difficulty |
| 9 - 10 months. During that time we are | | | | during the work out is best. This will |
| building the muscle and stamina to get the | | | | simulate the change in terrain just as if you |
| job done. It is this same simple action, | | | | were walking through the neighborhood, up and |
| walking, that should be the cornerstone in | | | | down hills, etc.An added benefit it is a walk |
| your fitness routine.For starters it is very | | | | can be a good time to reconnect. Ask a friend |
| simple and with few exceptions, most people | | | | to join you on occasion or as a regular |
| can do it. Again we all learn from very young | | | | partner. Take the dog or the kid with you, |
| how to walk. It is both a cardio workout as | | | | making sure that you set the pace and not |
| well as muscle building for the legs and arms | | | | them. If you have access to a portable |
| if included in the action. Don't just walk | | | | cassette or CD player it can be a good time |
| with your arms at your side; swing them | | | | to listen to a fictional book or self |
| naturally with the motion. For increased | | | | improvement program. This way you improve |
| results add simple weights to your hands, | | | | your mind and body at the same time.Once you |
| wrists, and/or ankles. Since you don't need | | | | have built up your walking skills there are |
| any extra equipment it is very convenient to | | | | other outlets for this exercise. Hiking has |
| do at work during lunch, during vacation, | | | | long been a popular activity. Start with some |
| etc.The key is to start small and increase | | | | simple marked trails in the local park and |
| the amount you walk over time. Start in your | | | | work your way up. Also, most every weekend |
| neighborhood. If you are out of shape just | | | | there is a charity event that includes a walk |
| start by walking down the block and back. Do | | | | or running event. This will allow you to help |
| that three times a week and every other week | | | | others while you help yourself physically. |
| add an additional block to the routine. You | | | | That is just good for the soul.Walking can be |
| will steadily build your stamina and | | | | a simple way to start an exercise program or |
| endurance.The most common piece of exercise | | | | be a complete program in and of itself. Just |
| equipment owned in America (besides spandex | | | | get started and build on your progress. A |
| biker shorts - just kidding) is a treadmill. | | | | final reminder, before starting any diet or |
| These can be purchased relatively cheap at | | | | exercise program consult with your physician |
| second hand exercise equipment stores or on | | | | to determine what is right for you. Good luck |
| ebay. The great part is that you no longer | | | | and good health.Simon Volk has been a |
| have the weather as an excuse. If it is | | | | contributing author for websites and is an |
| raining or snowing, just hop on the treadmill | | | | acknowledged expert in the field of health |
| instead of head outside. They came in a | | | | and fitness. |