Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active, yet is often overlooked by those who are trying to break a sweat more often. Because more than 60% of Americans don’t get the recommended amount of exercise each week (with 25% of Americans not being active at all), per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, starting to exercise may indeed feel painful and against the body’s tendency to stay sedentary. Walking is a great solution to this temporary hump: it’s simple, free to start and easier on your body’s joints. Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active, yet is often overlooked by those who are trying to break a sweat more often. Because more than 60% of Americans don’t get the recommended amount of exercise each week (with 25% of Americans not being active at all), per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, starting to exercise may indeed feel painful and against the body’s tendency to stay sedentary. Walking is a great solution to this temporary hump: it’s simple, free to start and easier on your body’s joints.Check the weather
Getting caught in a rainstorm in the middle of your walk isn’t exactly ideal. Take a look at the weather report in the morning to see when the best time for your walk would be. If you normally walk at around 5 p.m. but the weather report expects rain, then consider rescheduling your walk for lunchtime. And always carry a charged phone with you in case the weather takes a turn and you need someone to pick you up.
Hydrate
If you’re heading out for a long walk, make sure that you are hydrated and figure out how much water you should drink every day. Try to stay hydrated during the day and drink 2 cups of water at least 30-60 minutes before your walk so it’s out of your system and you won’t have to use the bathroom while you’re out. When you return from your walk, make sure to down a glass of water to rehydrate the body. Avoid any sugary sodas or electrolyte drinks; if you’re walking at a moderate intensity, water will do just fine to rehydrate the body.
