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Time To Start Moving!

Walking Your Way To Fitness
-- By Jen Mueller, Certified Personal Trainer

Walking is an ideal form of exercise for many reasons. You don't need special equipment to do it, it can be done by almost anyone, and you can do it almost anywhere! As an added bonus, there are numerous health benefits from starting a regular walking program:

Good for your heart: Walking regularly can result in a reduction of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, both of which contribute to heart disease.
Improves balance: This can help lower your risk of falls. This risk increases as we get older.
Strengthens bones and joints: Walking is easier on your joints than running or aerobics (which are high impact activities). It also reduces your risk for osteoporosis.
Weight control, more energy, better sleep: All benefits of a regular physical activity program.

If you are new to exercise, there are some important health tips which will get you started on the right foot:
  • Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. He or she may require a physical exam or special instructions based on your medical history.

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Member Comments About this Article
"I agree with you issoexiciting. I wish there were more articals on exerces during pregnancy.
I love walking though. I have found that after about 2 weeks of 30 minutes of walking a day, I dont feel like I have to use the restroom so much and the bachaches I use to have dont come around any more. I dont know if it is because of walking but it could be." -- FLESHOFDAISY
"I thought a nice walk would do me good after a couple weeks of bedrest. I had no idea I could lose so much stamina and muscle in such a short amount of time! You need to be extra careful not to overdo your activities if you've spent alot of time resting. I wish my dr had warned me about it!" -- MOMTOXANE
"I would like to see more fitness articles specific to pregnancy. Most of the articles seem to be about fitness in general. I would like to know more about safety of exercise when pregnant." -- ISSOEXCITING
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About The Author
Jen Mueller
Jen received her master's in health promotion and education from the University of Cincinnati. As a certified personal trainer, she also holds a certification in prenatal and postpartum exercise. Jen has two children and enjoys running marathons.

 


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