How to Power Walk Without Causing Injury to Joints and Muscles

By vetochemicals | May 31, 2011 | 0 Comments | Rating: 1

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Power walk safety tips for good health

Walking is one of the best and easiest exercises to do for good health. Turning a regular paced walk into a power walk will increase energy and metabolism to burn more calories as well as help you to maintain or lose weight, aid digestion and boosts the immune system. Learn how to power walk without causing injury to joints, tendons and muscles for the most benefits so that you can continue it for the best health.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Time

Determination

Safe area to walk

Good walking shoes

Water

Step 1

Walking shoes are important for a power walk

To make sure not to have an injury during a power walk, first get a good pair of sturdy walking shoes with great support, comfort, correct fit that are made for fitness. Get a proper fitting from a professional shoe store for the best fit possible.

Step 2

Do a calf stretch before a power walk

Before beginning to power walk, be sure to add five minutes of stretching first to loosen and lengthen the musles. This will help to prevent injury, cramping, stiffness and soreness. Do several leg and calf stretches and hold to the count of 10. Simply bend and touch the toes for a good hamstring stretch, holding to the count of 10. If unable to touch the toes, hold onto the ankles instead.

Step 3

Stretch the legs

Be sure to deep breathe properly during each stretch to help oxygen reach the muscles. Deep breathing will also aid in reducing injury, stiffness, cramping and soreness to the joints and muscles. Stretch the legs by holding one ankle and bend at the knee pulling the ankle towards the buttocks for a good stretch. Repeat on both legs.

Step 4

Follow power walk safety tips

Once the stretching is completed, start to walk. Choose a safe neighborhood or park for the power walk. Walk as briskly as possible without getting winded or hurting muscles. It may be necessary to start slowly and work into a powerwalk if you've not been walking for exercise. Always keep safety in mind, stay focused on your walk and your surroundings. Keep your cell phone and pepper spray with you at all times. Better to be safe than sorry.

Step 5

Hydrate your muscles

 Drink water before, during and after the power walk to prevent dehydration, replace lost fluids and to reduce the likelihood of injurying joints and muscles.

Step 6

Use a treadmill if unable to head outdoors

Power walk as long as possible. Starting with a 5 minute power walk will be better than not doing it at all. Just stick with it and each time it should become easier. Remember that anything done for at least 30 days more easily becomes a habit. Power walking is a healthy habit that your body will thank you for if done correctly. During inclement weather, power walk on the treadmill to keep the momentum going and to help you get into better shape.

Step 7

Add a new route such as a nature trail to your power walk

Increase the duration of the power walk each time, preferably daily if possible for the most benefits. This will increase endorphins and endurance and make it easier each time. Try adding a new route with a hill or through a park to make it more enjoyable, it increases the intensity as well as encourages the use of different muscles.

Step 8

Stretching is important for power walking

End each power walk with another 5 minutes of stretching. Stretching after your exercise is just as important as doing it before you start to exercise. Avoiding this step after the walk will cause an increased likelihood of soreness, cramping and stiffness, preventing you to want to repeat the process. These steps will help to prevent injury during a power walk and increase overall health and fitness and you'll find that the more you do it the more you'll want to - find a buddy for your next power walk!

 Tips & Warnings

• Start slowly with a walking program and work into a more intense power walk, you'll be surprised at how great you will feel with a fit and healthy body

• Almost everyone is able to start a walking program that can be increased to include a power walk for more intensity, to burn calories, to tone the body and to improve overall fitness

• Take a break if feeling overly winded and unable to carry on a normal conversation

• Power walking burns calories and aids digestion, so try it 20 minutes after a meal

• Ask a medical professional before beginning any exercise program, although most doctors will encourage you to begin your walking and power walking program

• Stop if pain results from power walking, rest and drink fluids before continuing

• Stay safe during a Power Walk

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