Walking To Lose Weight

Can walking help a person lose weight? There is conflicting information about whether or not walking can help a person lose weight. Any exercise is better than none and will not only help with weight loss efforts, but will also help a person attain better health and more stamina.

The Naysayers
There are people who are negative about the benefits of walking to lose weight. A fitness center I once belonged to (for a very short time) told me I would never lose any weight by walking because it wouldn't get my heart rate up high enough to burn any fat. While I understand that going for a slow leisurely stroll every night was not going to burn lots of calories, I was also disappointed to have the fitness center owners be so negative about one of my activity choices. At the time I was very out of shape and any activity at all should have been encouraged.

Walking is a great activity for people who are out of shape and need to start exercising slowly. Walking can be done slowly to start, for short periods, with the intensity and duration being built up over time.

So, while leisurely walking may not burn lots of fat and calories, the exercise is still good for you. Remember, any exercise is better than none. But, make sure to check with your doctor or health professional before starting any exercise regime, even walking, especially if you have been very sedentary and inactive for a long time.

Yes, Walking Is Great
Walking is an exercise recommended by almost any health or weight loss expert. It can be done almost anywhere. No fancy equipment is needed (if it's raining wear a raincoat; if it's cold and snowing wear boots and bundle up; if it's storming find an indoor area to walk, or have an indoor walking video at home to use on those days; if it's dark walk in a safe well lit area; if you don't feel safe walking after dark outdoors find an indoor area, use the indoor walking video, or look for an inexpensive used treadmill). And people from beginner to advanced can safely partake in it.

Walking is a great cardio exercise and is great for your heart and overall well-being. Combining it with weight training exercise and a reduced calorie diet will help you reach your weight loss goals.

If you really want to kick your walking routine into high gear though, try power walking or try one of the walking plans that includes intervals of higher intensity walking and/or exercise moves to do during the walks to boost the number of calories burned. To find some plans to review, go online and type in any of the following search terms: power walking, walking plan, fitness walking.

And, remember that more exercise and walking is something you can incorporate into your daily routine. For example, when shopping, pick the most outlying parking spot so you have farther to walk to and from the store. Take the steps instead of the elevator whenever possible. If you work, take a couple of five minute walking breaks a few times a day.

And to make daily walks more fun and to keep you more motivated, encourage your family to walk with you or find a walking buddy.