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The
basic kind of
walking can
be done almost
anywhere and at
any time,
year around.
more
about walking...
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About
67 million men and
women in this country
have discovered how
walking is one of
the most fun, natural,
and inexpensive ways
of keeping your feet
in top shape. The
basic kind of walking
-- often called
healthwalking --
can be done almost
anywhere and at
any time, year
around.
For
those with a long
history of inactivity,
problems with obesity,
or who just don't
like strenuous
activity, walking
is an excellent
way to begin an
exercise program. |
Exercise
walking has a host
of benefits.
Walking helps
control weight, blood
sugar, and cholesterol levels. A brisk walk can
burn up to 100 calories per mile
or 300 calories per
hour.
Walking also improves
cardiovascular fitness.
As an aerobic exercise, walking gets the heart
beating
faster to transport
oxygen-rich blood
from the lungs
to the muscles. The heart and lungs
grow more efficient with a
regular walking regimen,
reducing blood pressure and the resting heart rate.
Walking is even a central
element of medical
rehabilitation.
Recovery from
many ailments, including
heart attack, is facilitated by a regular walking
regimen.
In addition, walking
creates an overall
feeling of
well-being, and can
relieve depression, anxiety, and
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stress
by producing
endorphins,
the body's
natural tranquilizer.
A brisk walk
will relax
you and also
stimulate your
thinking.
If you are more than 40 years old and have any problems with weight, respiration,
blood pressure, pulse rate, or cholesterol, check with your doctor before beginning
a walking regimen. The same goes for diabetics, smokers, or people with preexisting
injuries or a family history of heart problems.
Don't neglect your feet when embarking on a walking regimen. Wear thick, absorbent
socks (acrylic is preferable to cotton); dry feet well after bathing, paying
special attention to the toes, and use powder before putting on shoes. Nails
should be cut regularly, straight across the toe.
Avoid self-treatment of corns and calluses with over-the-counter remedies before
starting to walk. And if you have bunions or hammertoes, consult first with
blisters develop, self-treatment by opening them with a sterilized needle and
draining the fluid. Cover the treated blister with antibiotic ointment to prevent
infection. |
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