HEALTH & WELLNESS
A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION WALK YOUR WAY TO FITNESS By Patricia Canole
ost New Yorkers may think they’re experts when it comes to walking. After all, we are known as the best city for walking. But besides getting from Point A to Point B, walking is the best heart-healthy exercise going. Here, short advice on long-term benefits. With season temps rising, it’s perfect for trying one or all on your next stroll around town.
10,000 STEPS You may have heard you need to aim for 10,000 steps each day to get fit. But how did this originate? It all began in Japan during the 1960s, when Yoshiro Hatano, Ph.D., tracked habitually active walkers. His team determined that the average man burned 300 calories by approximately walking 10,000 steps. And so manpo-kei (“10,000 steps meter”) was born, otherwise known as the pedometer. Of course, most of us use an app on our phones which is even more convenient. Today, most experts agree the number is a bit arbitrary. Nevertheless, counting steps is essential. Keep in mind the number of steps depends on your aim. The rule of thumb: Walk as much as you can whenever you can. You know it has health benefits—so why not just do it?
TRIM YOUR WAISTLINE Lack of exercise and sitting around and not moving? No one is immune from adding those pandemic pounds. If you’ve noticed an increasing midriff bulge, a regular daily brisk walk can help get you back in shape. With a steady regular walking schedule, you will have flatter abs in no time. The critical thing to remember is your technique for walking should be correct. Hold your head up, looking straight ahead, not at the ground. Keep your neck, shoulders, and back relaxed. Walking with stiffness will be very tiring and leave you sore afterward. Breathe deeply as you walk and enjoy nature’s beauty and what’s around you.
REDUCE STIFF JOINTS If you walk for 30 to 60 minutes every day, you will get the best natural arthritis pain relief. Walking helps reduce inflammation and stiffness in your joints. When you first start, go at a slower pace and gradually build up to walking faster and longer. You will feel great.
MANAGE YOUR BP It has been reported that a daily walk can lower blood pressure naturally. Many of us may claim we don’t have time to do 30- or 45-minute walks each day. Good news! Studies now show that several 10-minute brisk walks can be as helpful as one long walk. Walk in the morning for 10 minutes; take a 10-minute stroll at lunchtime, and then again in the evening. 64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE 2021
