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How To

How to Lose Weight by Walking

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(4 Ratings)

Walking is the ideal exercise for people to embrace when starting a workout program. You can use walking to lose weight whether you need to lose 5 or 50 lbs. Learn how to get started losing weight.

From Quick Guide: Walking It Off
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Walking shoes
  • Pedometer
  • Treadmill
  1. Step 1

    Wear appropriate footwear from the start. You probably have a pair of sneakers that will work in the beginning. You can buy specific walking shoes later. The main thing is to get moving and not let anything stand in your way.

  2. Step 2

    Start with a walk of at least 10 minutes 3 times per week. The next week, walk 15 minutes, then work up to 30 minutes or more. Continue your routine as often as possible. You will reap the benefits as you lose weight.

  3. Step 3

    Stride slowly when you begin your daily walk and continue for 5 to 10 minutes. Speed up to a brisk pace in the middle of the walk. Slow down again for the last 5 to 10 minutes to round out your routine. As you continue the habit and start to feel more energetic, you will crave daily exercise.

  4. Step 4

    Count your steps with a pedometer. An average of 6,000 steps is a good goal for a beginner. People who are accustomed to a lot of walking shoot for 10,000 steps. However, remember that you need to protect your feet with good walking shoes and the proper terrain.

  5. Step 5

    Think outside the box for walking ideas. Choose to walk from one end of a mall to the other. Visit friends near your home by walking the distance instead of hopping into your car.

  6. Step 6

    Keep a treadmill handy for those bad weather workout days. Start and keep the pace that feels comfortable to you. You can start slowly and increase as needed. Conversely, slow down as needed.

  7. Step 7

    Continue your routine indoors or out, good weather or bad. An every day schedule is best, but walk at least 3 days a week.

Tips & Warnings
  • Any exercise you do is a big help in losing weight. Bicycling, skating and outdoor play will result in weight loss quicker than you realize.
  • You have to eat correctly to fully succeed in your weight loss regimen. The exact number of calories needed varies from person to person.
  • Failure to wear the right shoes can cause a painful problem of Plantar Fasciitis (extreme heel pain).

Comments  

lauren122 said

Flag This Comment

on 9/22/2009 great ideas! 5*

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