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Walking can help control weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. It is a perfect complement to a sensible diet to lose weight and to keep it off. Walking can be enjoyed almost anywhere, any time, and year round. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, walking exercises offer a host of benefits. To maintain a healthy and happier lifestyle, walking may be the right choice for you. It is an easy, safe and inexpensive way to exercise and keep up your health. Walking can also be a relaxing and invigorating way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The results of walking are physically rewarding and add enjoyable years to your life. The Benefits of Walking Podiatrists recommend walking to ease or ward off a number of physically related illnesses. Walking can help you:
• Strengthen your heart and lungs
• Improve circulation
• Prevent heart attacks and strokes
• Reduce obesity and high blood pressure
• Boost your metabolic rate
• Favorably alter your cholesterol
• Improve muscle tone in your legs and abdomen
• Reduce stress and tension
• Reduce arthritis pain
• Stop bone tissue decay Walking is an excellent way to begin an exercise program for those who have a long history of inactivity, problems with obesity, or who just don't like strenuous activity. When beginning, you can start off slowly and then gradually increase your speed to maintain a steady pace. A good conditioning program begins with moderation and dedication. Stretch Before You Walk When walking for exercise it is important to stretch before and after you walk. You only need to stretch for a few minutes and far enough to feel your muscles elongating, not until you feel pain. Remember to stretch slowly without bouncing as that will harm your muscles. Talk to your podiatrist in Scottsdale if you have questions about your stretching routine. Some stretching routines include: • Head circles
• Arm circles
• Leg curl
• Wall push
• Ankle circles
• Achilles stretch Proper Footwear is Vital When Walking It is important to choose a good quality, lightweight walking shoe with breathable upper materials, such as leather or nylon mesh. The heel counter should be very firm, as it should have reduced cushioning to position the heel closer to the ground for walking stability. The front area of the shoe should have adequate support and flexibility, as well. Make sure the shoes fit your feet accordingly. The shoe should be snug, but not too tight over the sock and have plenty of room for the toes to move around. What athletic socks you choose are important as well because you don't want your shoe to become too tight when wearing socks. Proper footwear is essential in protecting your feet from injury and pain as well as allowing you to properly walk for exercise. Initially, it is important to meet with your podiatrist prior to beginning any exercise or walking routine. With the consultation of your podiatrist, a proper walking regimen can be created to ensure appropriate exercise. At the first onsite of aches or pains visit your podiatrist for further treatments to correct and prevent your ailments.
Dr. Mark Forman is an experienced board certified sports podiatrist in Scottsdale, offering a wide array of foot and ankle care in North and South Scottsdale, AZ. This highly qualified Scottsdale podiatrist provides treatment for heel pain, diabetic foot care and orthotics in Scottsdale among many other foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Forman is an avid runner and specializes in sports athletes.
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