Walking

Walking offers a host of benefits, including controlling weight, improving cardiovascular fitness, reducing blood pressure, and keeping your feet in top shape. It is important to pay special attention to your feet when walking. Not stretching properly or walking with an improper gait can lead to foot pain or even injuries.

Walking Shoes

The great thing about walking for exercise is that the only equipment you need is a pair of shoes that provide adequate support. Walking shoes should have flexibility in just the right places, should give a little when you twist them, and should bend at the ball of the foot. A professional can help fit you with a shoe that will support your type of gait.

When is it time for new shoes?

You should replace walking shoes every 300-600 miles.

If shoes are causing blisters, corns or calluses, it is time to consider a new pair.

Consider using your walking shoes only for exercise to extend the life of them.

Walking Routine

Create a walking routine. Pick a couple days a week and stick to them. Maybe there is a path by your home, maybe you want to walk with your dog or with a partner, maybe you do best indoors at a gym. Whatever it may be, walking is great for your feet and for your health.

Image by Susanne Nilsson. Walking the Dog. (2015). Flickr.