Many people of all ages find themselves wishing they could get into better physical shape, but they don’t know where to start. Going to a gym can be expensive and intimidating, while trying to work out with videotapes at home can be boring and repetitive.

Why not begin a walking program? Walking for fitness has many advantages. It is easy to get started and you won’t need to purchase any special equipment or commit to a long-term fitness club membership. All that is really needed is a good pair of walking shoes that fit properly and give the right support. If you don’t own a such a pair already, you can easily find a reasonably priced pair at your local shoe store or other retail outlet. Ask a salesperson for help in finding a pair that are comfortable, give good support, and are appropriate for walking longer distances.

While certainly not necessary for success, there are some accessories that can help you make the most of your walking program. Pedometers, for example, will help you keep track of how many steps you take, and some of them will also let you know how much distance you’ve covered. Most pedometers also feature a stopwatch function for timing your walk. Depending on the number of features, pedometers can range in cost from under $10 for a basic model to $30 and up for models with extra features such as heart rate monitor, calorie counter, etc.

One other thing to keep in mind before you begin is this: always remember to stretch before and after your walk. It only takes a few minutes and will keep you from cramping up as well as help increase your flexibility.

The first step towards making your new fitness program a success is creating a plan about where and when you will walk. Ideally, try to fit walking into your schedule at least four times a week. Consider four to be your minimum number of walking occasions. If you are able to fit in one or two more, go for it.

Don’t worry about how fast or how far you are able to walk at first. Instead, concentrate on making your new fitness regimen a priority and not making excuses to avoid a planned workout.

Fitting Walking Into Your Schedule

Even if you are a very busy individual, it easier to fit a low preparation activity like walking into your schedule than it is to make time for something like a spin class at a health club. You can walk whenever you have time – try getting up a little earlier in the morning or going for a stroll before bed. Once you’ve started your walking program, you’ll likely find that you sleep better and feel more rested, even if you’ve getting up earlier or going to be later to accommodate your new routine.

Another great time to squeeze in a walk is during your lunch hour at work. Having one or even a few co-workers join you can be quite motivating, and watching what you eat during your mid-day break easier if you don’t spend the entire time focused on food. Making walking part of your daily routine at work allows you to enjoy the benefits of regular physical activity without requiring any major adjustments to your schedule.

Where to Walk

Where you walk is also a big part of how motivated you’ll stay. The great thing about Mother Nature is that she’ll change the scenery for you so that you see something different every day. If you’re lucky enough to live near a forest preserve or nature park, try to make it a point to walk there as often as possible. Not only will you be enjoying the benefits of burning calories with cardiovascular exercise, but you’ll also enjoy the peace and serenity offered by nature.

Walking With a Partner

Staying committed on a long-term basis to your walking program will be less difficult if you include a partner. Whether it’s a neighbor, family member or friend, walking with a companion adds interest to your work out and helps prevent you from making excuses and skipping workouts. It’s much easier to make an excuse to yourself than it is to make one to someone else.

Should you happen to be a dog owner, your pet will likely prove a great companion for your walk. While smaller dogs can’t always keep up with a fast pace or a lengthy walk, medium and larger breeds very much enjoy the exercise and recreation provided by such outings.

If you plan to use your walking program as part of a weight loss effort, here are some diet tips. Keep hydrated, not only during your walk, but all day long. Not only will you eat less, but you’ll also reap benefits such as healthier nails and more radiant skin. Try to keep most meals and snacks focused on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with some lean meat included as well. Instead of denying yourself your favorite foods, prevent binging and impulse eating by occasionally indulging in a small, calorie-controlled portions of the treats you enjoy.

Most importantly, focus on the big picture. Don’t weigh yourself more often than once a week, and remember, exercise builds muscle. Even if you’re not seeing a big loss as far as pounds, try to pay attention to how your clothes fit and how you’re feeling about your body. That’s where you’ll see the real results.

The weather can be an enemy when it comes to maintaining your walking program. Especially if you live in an area where the weather is often less than temperate, inclement conditions can hamper your ability to be consistent.

There are two ways to approach this problem. First consider bundling up really well and braving the elements. You’ll be surprised how quickly you’ll warm up once you start moving. Or if that’s not an option, think about walking at your local mall or checking out the indoor walking track at your local YMCA, park district or high school.

If you’re serious about making walking a permanent part of your routine, it won’t take long for you to start achieving lasting results.