Many people are beginning to discover that walking can be the ultimate workout. It is an exercise that almost anyone can do, it's easy on your body and you can set your own pace. All you need is the motivation and a pair of comfortable walking shoes!

Walking is an excellent exercise for weight loss and general physical health. It is an "aerobic" exercise that improves cardiovascular fitness by putting a demand on the body's cardiovascular system (heart and lungs). This allows your system to adapt and become more efficient at extracting oxygen from the air and transporting it through the blood to the muscles.

With a regular walking program the heart and lungs grow more efficient, reducing blood pressure and your resting heart rate. Walking also makes the body more efficient at burning calories you intake or store in your body.
[Health Benefits of Walking]

Did you know you can burn calories with relatively little effort?

A person may be able to expend up to 125 calories in a fast 1-mile run, however by walking for 3 miles one can approximately triple calorie expenditure without becoming exhausted. This is one reason why experts recommend moderate activity instead of high-intensity effort for weight control.

Walking is also FREE! No membership fees and expensive equipment to buy. It is also convenient and easy to fit into a daily schedule. You don't have to drive to a gym or fit in with someone else's schedule. It only takes a couple of minutes to put on your shoes and you can start walking from your house, your place of employment or even walk around the mall! Walking can be done almost anywhere.

You can make walking a social event. Go for a walk with your spouse and use the exercise time to chat and communicate. It can strengthen your marriage as well as strengthen your body. Or make a walk date instead of a lunch date with your friends. You can all get fit together and help to motivate and encourage each other in your fitness and weight goals. Make going for a walk a regular family event. Put the children on their bicycles, put the baby in the stroller or baby carrier (if mom or dad wants a more challenging workout) and get moving!