Walking is The Easy Exercise

I was trying to save a buck the other day and decided to walk to the supermarket instead of driving my truck. It was only a ten minute walk and the exercise wouldn't hurt me either. (Not to mention the money I save on gas). Nowadays it's about the only form of exercise I get because I'm just not ambitious enough to visit a gym, do push-ups or anything else that's going to make me grunt, groan or sweat. Walking though, nice and easy as long as I stick to flat ground and avoid the occasional marathonWe're not going to go into the facts and figures about how walking benefits your heart, burns calories and helps you lose weight. We've heard it all before. Instead, let's focus on how to make this simple exercise a pure joy. After all don't you take longer and do more of things you enjoy?
Music is the first thing that comes to mind. We used to see hundreds of people walking along with portable radios and cd players strapped to their belt, humming or singing to their favorite tunes, (or maybe they were taking spanish lessons?). I've found miles and minutes can both slip away at an incredible pace when your mind is occupied on something other than the walk.
With todays, IPods, telephones and MP3 players music can be carried along with no trouble at all! I'll generally put 20 songs on my player and walk for 10 of them, then make a return trip using the other 10. Another activity that can make your stroll more enjoyable and add miles to your pedometer is photography. Take pictures with a small, easy to carry camera or even a camera phone
Plants, wildlife and natural formations are the subject of many books and calendars and could turn into a hobby or a money making venture! Start your own website featuring nature photography or use them to make custom cards, t-shirts or other items as gifts.
Maybe you could sell them on E-Bay! Third and lastly, let your imagination run wild. Start your own little fantasy in your mind. By the time you get to the part where you kiss the frog you'll find miles have passed under your shoes.
Remember, the return trip. Plan out your route or your way back home, walking trails that loop around are always good, many being well maintained and easy to walk on. A trip around the neighborhood enables you to check on family or friends and you won't get lost. Walk to your favorite store and shop around, try not to buy too much, you'll have to carry it back. Arrange a ride with friends who may be heading home from work at a particular time.
A few other things that may keep you walking: 1. Buy a pedometer. This handy little gadget will keep track of how far you've walked. 2. Try keeping a log book. Set goals and gradually increase them. Patting yourself on the back every now and then is a great reward. 3.
Vary your routes, the same old scenery may get boring. Walk on trails, sidewalks, museums, even around a mall. Whatever method you use make sure you have good shoes! Even the most enjoyable walks can turn into a painful nightmare if blisters form or your shoes don't fit correctly.