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| Fitness Buzz: November 14, 2007 | |||||
Boost Your Walking Workout... The Need for Speed!  Time seems to speed up with every passing year, and once again we find ourselves in the midst of holiday planning and events. We also need to adjust to losing an hour of our precious daylight with daylight saving time hitting last week. Staying active and fit throughout the holiday months is important, and while finding the time may be challenging, the benefits and rewards of working out is the true gift.
One of my favorite activities is walking. Whether I head to the beach or just stroll around my neighborhood, it offers me the time to get some fresh air, reflect, and clear my mind and body of that seemingly endless "to-do" list. |
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Here's a tip for you to try on your next walk: If you really want to burn calories and increase your fitness level, you have to think "more speed." In order to increase your pace, focus on your arms. Since your arms and legs work in unison, your legs can't speed up unless your arms do. Start by putting a 90-degree bend in your elbows and holding your hands in a loose fist. Swing your arms forward (not side-to-side), keeping your elbows in, and visualize your arms as the pistons of a car, moving forward and back, forward and back. It should feel natural, and if it doesn't, you might be exaggerating the motion and trying a little too hard. Just go with what feels right on your body. Another sure-fire way to burn more calories is to the walk on a hilly terrain. No time to get outside? Try creating your own "hill workout" on the treadmill so that you can keep it interesting and pick up the intensity. Not only does this make for a more challenging cardiovascular exercise, it also has the added bonus of shaping your legs and buns. Here's one of my favorite treadmill workouts when I want to turn up the heat:
What I love about this innovative treadmill is that it offers audio cross-training technology that talks you through each workout - allowing you to easily burn calories while adding muscle mass. Check out these bonus features and see how quickly you can start seeing results:
So as you're walking, picking up the intensity, and increasing your speed, think about getting a boost in your energy level. That positive energy you create in your body can become a powerful force for change this holiday season. Imagine sending it out to those in need of a helping hand, and as you visualize sending good vibrations, you'll notice a lift in your own spirit, and it becomes a cycle of total inspiration. If you're looking for more tips to keep you motivated and moving through the holidays, check out my blog in the coming weeks: www.kathysmith.com/blog |
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