Walking is one of the simplest, but also most effective forms of exercise.
Meet the Experts
What Muscles Does Walking Work?
Whats more, your upper body is working, too.
Stocksy/Design by Cristina Cianci
Your hip flexors, abs, and back are all helping support your stride and keep you upright.
How Much Should You Be Walking a Week to Enjoy the Benefits?
And ensure whatever your pace, your heart rate is elevatedno strolling!
How to Get More out of a Walk
Walking itself is great exercise.
Try adding these to the middle of your walk when you reach a park or other landmark.
Perform 10 stretches for a few seconds each.
For lunges, step forward with one foot until your leg reaches a 90-degree angle.
Your rear knee should remain parallel to the ground and your front knee shouldnt go beyond your toes.
Lift your front lunging leg to return to the starting position.
Perform up to 10 lunges on each leg.
Then continue with your walk.
Try Nordic Walking Sticks
Want to improve your balance and stability when you walk?
Try adding a pair of walking sticks.
Try them when youre hiking or just out on a paved trail.
Treadmill vs.
Walking outside is much better than walking on a treadmill because nature is a natural antidepressant, he says.
Of course, the treadmill can come in handy on rainy or snowy days, too.
You should be walking at a brisk pace.
