Walk it Off
All the contradictory information about how long to exercise, what exercises to do, and the right way to do them can itself be exhausting. The thought of joining a gym - the membership fees, the aromatic locker rooms, and the people who look like they live there can also be off putting. One simple solution: walking. As James Levitson MD, wrote in an editorial in the July issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings: "You don't have to join a gym, you don't have to check your pulse. You just have to switch off the TV, get off the sofa and go for a walk."
While there are conflicting facts and opinions, Dr. Levitson points out that walking is good, whether the outcome measurement is lower blood pressure, reducing diabetes, preventing cardiovascular disease, helping joint problems or improving mental health. Walking is good exercise at almost any age, weight, or level of physical health. It doesn't require special equipment, a membership card, or even a lot of time. It can also educational, entertaining, and inspirational. So this weekend get out of the house and go for a walk. Explore your neighborhood or find a park. Go with a friend or go alone. Just go!
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