Regular exercise is a critical part of a healthy lifestyle. Walking is one of the most natural forms of exercise. Exercise provides a number of health benefits such as lower blood pressure, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, weight loss, improved strength and balance, and improved mood. It is important to prepare if you have not walked or exercised regularly for some time.

As you prepare, begin with your feet. Wear good absorbent socks that will wick moisture away from your skin and prevent blisters. Wear comfortable shoes designed specifically for walking. Appropriate footwear will provide support and cushioning that will prevent foot pain and injury to joints and back. Warm up slowly at a slow pace for about 5 minutes. Cool down after your walk with another 5 minutes at a slower pace. Stretch after warming up and after cooling down to reduce muscle soreness and injury. Start slowly and increase your routine gradually. Walk only as far or as fast as you can comfortably when you first begin. For example, you may start with short sessions of 5 or 10 minutes daily and try to build to 15 minutes three times a week. Try to build to sessions of 30 to 60 minutes at least 5 days each week.

It is important to make walking a part of your lifestyle. To do so you must stay motivated. Set realistic goals that you know can achieve to avoid frustration. Any increase in walking will provide improved health benefit so the important thing is to begin. Track your progress by measuring time and distances walked. Log time and distance or use a pedometer to help you track your progress. Stay motivated by making walking fun and varying your routine. Develop a walking social circle by inviting friends and family. Vary walking routes or locations such as local parks, the school track and a treadmill at the spa. Do not be hard on yourself if your routine gets disrupted, the important thing is to get back on track as soon as you can. Increased activity is the single most important thing you can do to improve your health if you do not smoke and have been sedentary for awhile.

Taos Pharmacy's Home Health Plus home health care department stocks Taos' largest selection of insoles, braces, supports, support socks, and physical therapy and rehabilitation exercise products. We can help you prepare for your exercise program with products and expert advice.

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