Starting the week off with a WIN is vital to good health as it sets a positive tone, energizes the mind and body, and fosters a sense of motivation.
Continue reading each week as we explore the benefits of walking, exercise advice, uplifting stories, and provide tips to enhance your overall well-being.
Follow the weekly STEPS as we embark on this journey together towards a healthier, happier you!
““Never consider the possibility of failure; as long as you persist, you will be successful.””
Step 1: Increase your walking speed with STEPS
Let’s go back to basics and learn this acronym to improve your walking form.
On your next walk keep “STEPS” in mind as you take each step.
1. Shorter quicker strides
2. Toes propel you forward
3. Engage your core and glutes
4. Posture: Body straight and head up
5. Swing your arms quickly
Having this simple mental device to remind you of what you need to do will get you moving quickly with just a little practice.
During each walk, keep STEPS in mind. Pick a point in the distance and consciously apply the STEPS in reaching the point. Keep your focus on each of the 5 aspects of STEPS.
Eventually, as your body adjusts to the quicker pace, you will just naturally move faster and with more “pep in your step”... Listen as I explain more
Step 2: Exercise at night for biggest benefit — if you fall into this group
Researchers in Australia, who published their work in the journal Diabetes Care, looked at data from nearly 30,000 people over eight years and found that for those living with obesity, nighttime movement between the hours of 6 p.m. and midnight tended to be the most beneficial. Learn more
Step 3: Long term motivation and creativity
When I look over my walking logs, I get an excellent overview of the work I've put into my fitness. I see my progress from when I started recovering from my back injury and could only walk down the block and back, to doing long walks of over ten miles! The training log significantly boosts my motivation when I see, on paper, just how far my fitness walking has progressed. Read more about:
· 8 benefits of journaling and tracking your walking miles
· Types of journals
· Why it is important to write longhand in a journal
· 6 benefits of writing longhand
Step 4: Add that extra mile to your next walk with a great audiobook
WWII history comes alive with Americans in Paris: Life and Death Under Nazi Occupation. Listen to the Audible sample.
Before the Second World War began, approximately thirty thousand Americans lived in Paris, and when war broke out in 1939 almost five thousand remained.
This engaging book is their story with so many details about the war that got overlooked my US History 2 unit from high school! Get TWO FREE audiobooks with a trial!
Walk on,
Frank S. Ring Author: Walking for Health and Fitness, Fitness Walking and Bodyweight Exercises, Walking Inspiration, and Walking Logbook Journal.
PS I take your health and fitness seriously, and you'll see that through the words I have written and the care taken to put the Walking Inspiration Newsletter (WIN) together. Thank you for trusting me to assist you on your journey to good health and fitness, Sincerely, Frank S. Ring
Frank's Recommendation
A fanny pack with a water bottle holder ensures hydration on the go, keeping you refreshed during walks. Its convenient design allows easy access to water without disrupting your stride. Stay hydrated effortlessly, maintain optimal performance, and enhance endurance during walks, ensuring you reach your fitness goals comfortably and effectively.
