Way to Boost Your Walking Workout
1. Bring a friend. When you have a walking buddy who is counting on you, you will be less likely to skip.
2. Add a walking accessory. You can get an Express Stretch and just stretch it in all directions as you walk for a safe and effective muscle boost.
3. Head for the hills. Find a route that goes over the hills or steps. You can climb up a set of stairs after your muscles are warmed up.
4. Step to the beat. Bring along your portable player like a disc man, iPod, MP3 player or cell phone and walk to the beat of your favorite upbeat music (about 130 to 140 beats per minute). This is the speed you need for burning fat.
5. Pick an interesting route. Walking different terrain will add variety to your walks. New muscles are pulled into action when you walk on sand, dirt paths or hills and they will make walking a little more challenging.
6. Alternate between walking and jogging. As you walk, speed it up to a mild jog for a minute or two. Add three or more jogging intervals to each walk to really increase your calorie burn.
7. Stabilize your core. While walking, draw your belly button back toward your spine. This small movement works to help strengthen your midsection.
8. Put on a weighted vest. Start with four pounds. When this amount is no longer challenging, add more weight at two pounds at a time.
9. Go the extra mile. One day a week, take an extra long walk. Just add ten additional minutes to increase your endurance and calorie burn.
10. Wear a pedometer. This will count your steps to keep you motivated. Remember one mile is approximately 2,000 steps and a nice, brisk pace is about 15 to 17 minutes per mile.
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