We’re often asked if just walking isn’t “good enough” for people over 50.
The short answer is: Nope. Sorry, but it’s not.
Walking IS a great first step – pun intended. So, if you’re thinking of starting an exercise program, then yes – get up and go for a walk. Or, if you’ve already been walking more than normal, then now is the time to take that next step.
Strength training, for instance, can’t be ignored later in life.
First, here’s what’s so great about walking. It’s easy for most people, and you can do it anywhere, anytime, with no special equipment other than a good pair of shoes. You can even burn around 300 calories an hour – more if you increase the speed or add some hills to tax your glutes, hamstrings and calves a bit more, and that’s always a good thing.
A consistent routine can lead to weight loss, up to 15 pounds a year for someone who is just starting out. So that’s a nice start, but realize that for continued weight loss, like any other routine, you’ll have to increase the intensity or duration.
That might mean incorporating some intervals – jogging for 1 minute of every 5 or 10 minutes of walking, for example. Gradually increase the time you’re jogging. You might even add some light hand weights for a greater challenge.
Walk at a brisk pace, so that a prolonged conversation is a challenge. That’s the pace needed to lead to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.
Give us a call so we can show you the next steps on your fitness journey to strength, stamina, agility – and living the life you want.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.