"Walk And Talks" Will Be Your New Favorite Cardio Workout
We want to share with you one of the latest and greatest ways to have fun while staying physically fit. In fact, "walk and talks" will be your new favorite cardio workout. All you have to do to get started? Put on your sneakers, and either plan a phone call with a friend or invite one over to join you. It's that simple! Read on to learn more about what "walk and talks" are all about, and next, be sure to check out The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.
It's a great opportunity to get in your daily steps and relieve stress
We spoke with Tim Liu C.S.C.S., an online fitness and nutrition coach and a member of the Eat This, Not That! Medical Expert Board who shares the many health benefits of doing "walk and talks" with a bestie, loved one, or partner. According to Liu, not only will this kind of cardio routine help you achieve your daily steps, but it will also provide a refreshing mental break from work and relieve any stress you're dealing with during the day. Plus, it's amazing catch-up time!
Getting in 3,000 to 4,000 steps on a daily basis (around 1.5—2 miles) is the average for most Americans, according to Mayo Clinic. It's an invigorating idea to work your way up to 10,000 steps each day, and "walk and talks" are the perfect way to help you reach that goal. In the process, you'll also reduce your risk of many health issues, including obesity, depression, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
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You'll burn more calories by incorporating hills into your routine
Liu offers up some pretty efficient tips on planning your walk and talk. First, map out a short route for a mini-workout. Find a loop in your neighborhood or local community, and determine how much time it will take you to walk it. This will make it easy to plan how many laps you're able to do within any given timeframe.
The more hills you include in your route, the better your workout will be. "You can burn more calories when on a walk by picking up your pace, going up a hill, or having light hand weights as you move," Liu explains. According to Livestrong, walking uphill prompts your body to put in more effort. You can shed excess weight by utilizing hills in your walking routine and tone your lower body. Feel free to switch up your course each time you go to avoid getting bored.
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Choosing a walking buddy who shares the same fitness goals is key
Next, Liu suggests choosing a friend to join in on the fun who shares the same fitness goals as you. You will both be eager to increase your challenge by adding more steps and hills each time you go. Plus, it's exciting to cheer each other on. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), working out together can be more motivating. You may work harder, experience some new adventures together, and maintain consistency.
Wear a good pair of walking shoes
One last thing Liu advises? It's extremely important to wear the right shoes for a long walk. According to Livestrong, the wrong sports shoe can cause injuries, impeding your walking and fitness journey. Finding just the right, supportive workout shoe can help avoid damage to your ankles and feet, and keep them comfortable and secure while getting in your steps.
