My tips on walking for exercise as a senior
Being Catholic ... Really by Pam Spano and other stuff
Years ago I started walking as a form of exercise. I walked through my neighborhood or I would take a bus and walk through a different neighborhood. As it became more of a habit, I realized the benefits.
The biggest benefit was the way I felt and that came about when I didn’t walk regularly. Physically, I felt stiff and mentally I felt off when I missed a few days.
People cringe at the word “exercise.” You might think of a complicated routine or running (which I don’t like at all!). Walking is different. It gets you outside, it’s uncomplicated and it’s free.
So what are my tips? Just start. Walk around the block and then increase your distance as you feel more comfortable. Got a friend? It passes the time as you walk and talk and makes the walk enjoyable.
No friend? Take your rosary! Music is good, too, but I like to be aware of my surroundings. I also like the quiet or nature’s own soundtrack.
Pick a time. Are you a morning person? Afternoon? Whatever works for you. You don’t have to go every day at first, but find a schedule you can stick to. I’ve read that a fifteen minute walk three times a week is sufficient to maintain good health! That’s astonishing!
You don’t need expensive workout clothes. Wear what’s comfortable for you and the weather in your region. My seasons change, so I’ve learned to dress accordingly.
My biggest recommendations would be to invest in your shoes! My recent purchase of the Skechers Women's Relaxed Fit Slip On traveled with me to Ireland. I wore them daily without socks. There was no break-in time and they’re cute! I waterproofed them before we left with KIWI Sneaker Protector. It only rained hard once while we were there and the shoes held up nicely.
For the guys, my husband recommends Skechers mens Go Walk Evolution Ultra Impeccable Sneaker. My husband is very picky, but he wears these every day when we go for our walks.
Winter can stop you from going out. Don’t let it! Like I said I’ve learned to dress accordingly. Besides a good winter coat (layers work too), you’ll need a good boot to navigate the snow. I bought the XIANG GUAN Women's Outdoor High-Top Waterproof Hiking Boots four years ago and they’ve held up well during some brutal winters. I’ve added the Yaktrax Diamond Grip All-Surface Traction Cleats for extra stability. I also bought them for the whole family as they will fit over any shoe or boot.
MayMyWalk is the app I’ve been using for years to keep track of my walks and bike rides (more on that in future posts). It’s free (unless you want to upgrade) and it’s easy to use.
Maintaining good health doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated. Getting outside and moving at your own pace has many benefits and rewards. Don’t cheat yourself out of a simple way to stay healthy in mind, spirit and body.
Let me know how it’s going for you! I love the interaction!
The links to all products in this post are through my Amazon Affiliate Links. I get a small percentage of the sale if you purchase using those links at no extra cost to you.
I used to love walking as a relaxing form of exercise, a chance to take in nature and a good way to clear my head until this lousy copd caught up with me about 7 years ago. Now, I'm too easily winded too quickly to enjoy it anymore, darn it! Getting (physically) older is for the birds, I tell ya! Enjoy your walks for as long as your can, Pam...You'll miss it when you can't do it anymore. Keep up the good work!