Putting One Foot in Front of the Other by Steph Beth Nickel
How do you feel about walking?
“It’s not about the journey; it’s about the destination.”
That’s what I would have said in the not-too-distant past about going for a walk. Going to the corner store for a snack was fine, but going to Tim Horton’s was even better. I could sit down and enjoy my treat before walking home, likely to plop in front of the TV.
I’ll let you in on a secret: I am lazy by nature. Shh, don’t tell anyone.
Can you relate?
Thankfully, I’m learning to combat that laziness. I’m even beginning to actually enjoy walking.
Trust me. It’s possible.
About nine months ago, my hubby joined the gym. He wanted to build up his endurance so he could hike when we visited Jasper, Alberta. He spent hours walking on the treadmill.
I’m not a fan of cardio. I get bored too easily. I would spend 15-30 minutes, split between a couple of cardio machines, and then head off to do some resistance training. But my hubby would just keep walking. In fact, there came a time when he would go to the gym even when I didn’t.
I didn’t keep up my training as I should have and wasn’t sure what it would be like out west. Being asthmatic, I was a little concerned about the thinner air, but I was excited about the trip nonetheless.
Although I had come to enjoy walking outside with my hubby when the weather was nice, it was nothing like hiking in Jasper. We took several hikes while there. And while each day’s destination was amazing, the journey was pretty incredible too.
So, if walking just isn’t your thing, here are a few suggestions to help you enjoy the journey:
1. Take the slow and steady approach. Walking for 10-15 minutes each day is better than walking for two hours one evening and not walking again for a month. You will, however, want to work your way up from 10 minutes, but set a schedule you can stick with.
2. Invite a walking buddy to come along with you.
3. Don’t always walk the same route. Variety can stave off the boredom. Explore the walking trails in your area.
4. Plan daytrips (or longer ones) that will include a lot of walking. If you do so where there is lots to see, you may almost forget you’re getting exercise. Recently, my hubby, daughter, and I went to Point Pelee. We had a great time and enjoyed a couple of hikes.
5. And if you do have to work out at the gym and don’t enjoy the treadmill, why not try some of the other cardio machines for variety? Personally, I prefer the elliptical, but the bike, the rowing machine, and the step machine can be good options as well.
Keep putting one foot in front of the other and enjoy the many benefits that come from walking.
Remember what is safe and beneficial for one person can be harmful for another. Before changing your activity level and/or eating habits, consult your health care professional.
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It’s about the destination and the journey. (tweet this)
Before changing your activity level, exercise routine, and/or eating habits, consult your health care professional. What is safe and beneficial for one person can be harmful for another. Note that you implement the following information at your own risk.
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Steph Beth Nickel is an author, a freelance editor and writer, a labour doula, and a former personal trainer. She’d love to connect with you on Facebook or Twitter, on her website or blog.