Check out my top 5 healthy walking tips below. And be sure to comment with yours too. It’s really important that you follow these basic walking tips when you start any kind of walking program. Walking is a great workout and something most everyone can do.
*If you’re new to working out be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Stay Hydrated
Make sure to stay hydrated when you’re working out. You don’t need a ton of water but I like to sip on water throughout my entire workout. I don’t usually chug it unless I have done a major butt kicking workout like spinning or boxing.
I like to carry a water bottle with me everywhere. Here are some tips on how to stay hydrated. I had tried drinking lemon water at the start of every day for a couple weeks but got out of the habit. And yes you CAN drink too much water so beware of water intoxication.
Keep Track of Your Workouts
I like to keep track of my workouts in a personal planner and on a magnetic whiteboard. I bought this one and love it. I like to track my daily miles/steps, workout time, etc.
Use a Fitness Tracker
A fitness tracker is really important to keep an eye on your heart rate, steps, daily calories and more. I have used Fitbit in the past and would usually return to my tried and true, Polar fitness trackers but have been trying a new one. I like it. But I do miss using Polar.
If I were going to choose another Polar fitness watch, I would go for the Polar Ignite or Vantage.
I might end up with one of those anyway. But the Polar M430 is great too.
Walking Warm Up/Cool Down
Be sure to do warm-ups before hitting the pavement. I usually walk indoors with a Walk Away the Pounds workout so it covers the warm up and cool down but here are some stretches for before and after walking. You might also find this video helpful. Simple yet effective stretches you can do before and after walking.
Choose a Good Pair of Shoes
I have tried quite the variety of walking shoes over the years. Some of my favorites so far are Ryka walking shoes (I had the Ryka Intent XT) and their cross trainers. I’m love the Fila Memory Cool walking shoes (my favorite so far) and I wear New Balance training shoes too.
I like having separate walking shoes though. It’s very important to buy quality fitness and walking shoes.
And don’t forget a good pair of moisture-wicking socks! I love Thorlo Experia socks and am trying out a few other brands.
These are just some basic healthy walking tips that are simple to follow and recommendations for products I have personally used. Hopefully they have helped you!
Do you have any healthy walking tips to share?
April says
I am loving the simplicity in all your posts. Being on a weight loss journey myself, they are helping me get/stay motivated! It’s so easy to get lost in all the weight loss jargon and programs, but you keep it simple and un-intimidating!
Angie says
Thank you! I think keeping it simple should be my mantra, I don’t like to overcomplicate things and when I start to do that, bad things happen lol So glad to have you here and I appreciate your kind words.
Elaine says
Love this! It’s so simple to just put on a good pair of shoes and do some walking! It doesn’t cost much and the benefit to your health is long term! Thank you for this encouraging post!
Angie says
Exactly! Long-term health is my goal. Thanks for stopping by!
Nona Morris says
My fitbit keeps me motivated most days. I don’t drink nearly enough water though. Dehydration gets me down after one of my walks.
Angie says
Yes need to watch not to get dehydrated but drinking a bit before and after a walk should help. Sometimes I take my water bottle with me if it’s going to be more than a 30 minute walk.
Snehal Joshi says
All are essential things to be in a good walking routine. Following it closely.
Angie says
Yes I agree, thanks for stopping by.
Monica says
Lately I forget to do workout because there’ a lot of work to do. This remind me to simply do walking to keep me healthy. Thanks for sharing this post!
Angie says
I hear you there with a lot of work. I have to learn how to prioritize my workday better to always get in a workout, it’s so important.
Keith Watson says
I had to smile as you will see if you see my UBC day 3 blog. Keith
Angie says
Now I get it! Do you have any favorite fitness/health podcasts that you listen to? I’m going to write a post this month about that.
Ruth Bowers says
Hi Angie, Great tips! I can’t wait to get back outside and walking… although it’s snowing and freezing rain here tonight so it’s gonna be a few days I think. I really like New Balance shoes… I have cross-trainers for in the gym, and a pair of all-terrain ones for walking.