De-stressing through Walking – Part 3

This is the final entry to our three part series on de-stressing through walking.

Remember as you are walking to keep your head up. Look about 10 feet ahead of you.  Imagine that you’re wearing a baseball cap and have to look up just enough to see the road.  This keeps your neck aligned properly.

Photo credit: www.gedling.gov.uk

Smile and have fun.  Learning new techniques takes time and concentration.  Be patient and enjoy your walk. Dress comfortably, find a partner or listen to the music you love.  If you’re walking outdoors, vary your routine.

Remember the importance of the “warm down”.  The warm down is aimed at gradually returning the body to its resting state.  This will help to prevent muscle stiffness and the onset of muscle soreness that can follow a training session.

The last thing is to practice “metal fitness”.  Don’t replay the problem of the day while you walk.  Try to maintain a state of relaxed awareness by paying attention to your breathing and noticing how your body feels.  Visualize yourself getting healthier and stronger.

Consistency is probably the most important part of your walking workout.  The more committed you are to walking all or most days of the week the healthier you’ll be.  So get out there and get healthy!