After teaching a grueling cycling class, one of my students stayed after to share her weight loss progess. She excitedly spoke about how she started her weight loss journey by walking and lost 80 pounds in six months. 80 pounds?! After seeing her progress, she moved up to running and cycling shortly after. Her amazing story got me thinking-can you walk yourself thin?
By starting a walking program, you begin to get accustomed to movement. Typically those starting a walking program have been mostly sedenary for quite some time. Your body will deliver whatever you ask of it-whether that is sitting on the couch, watching TV, walking, or running a marathon. It is beautifully adaptive. I have noticed a pattern with clients who start off walking-they begin moving more throughout the day and end up burning more calories overall.
Although walking does not usually make you break out in a sweat or feel sore for days on end, it does impact your overall well-being. By taking time out of your day to do something positive for yourself, you will naturally make better choices in regards to your health. You will most likely eat better and begin exercising more often. Energy levels will go up and stress levels will decrease. Walking is also a weight-bearing activity which can strengthen bones. And it’s super easy to do anywhere you may find yourself.
A lot of times my friends will tell me they don’t even know where to start to begin a fitness program. Or they may be so out of shape they can’t even fathom lifting weights or taking a group exercise class. Beginning a walking program is a fantastic way to build the foundation for more. You will find yourself getting faster and being able to go longer. Before you know it, you will be jogging down a trail pushing a double stoller!
So, can you walk yourself thin? I believe it is a great launching pad to building a healthy lifestyle. So what are you waiting for? Grab those tennis shoes and let’s go!