A Must Read For Newbie Walkers!
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Going for a walk sounds so easy, doesn't it? We have been walking since we were toddlers and we walk every day. Whether we are strolling around the supermarket, or taking the dog for a little jaunt we don't really think about it as it is a natural movement.
But, walking is not just a means to get from one place to another. If you implement the right strategies then it can benefit you in lots of other ways, rather than just a human mode of transport. If you are reading this blog then I am assuming that you know all the other benefits of implementing a correct walking technique such as improving fitness, reducing blood pressure and of course getting out in the outdoors has a dramatic positive effect on mental health and depression.
Perhaps you have signed up to the Walk1000Miles challenge, or you have just decided that you want to start walking to improve your health and wellbeing. This blog is here to guide you on your first steps to a long and healthy walking habit.
SUMMARY
Walking is the magic ingredient that can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes and even breast cancer. The word is spreading fast and we are seeing people join the "walking revolution" every single day. Most people can walk and it is a relatively inexpensive hobby, so why wouldn't you want to get out in the fresh air? If you are seriously thinking about walking as a hobby, or you are setting a goal to walk so many miles during the next 12 months, then please take note of the above tips. We wouldn't want you grumpy and in pain before you have even started.
Good luck!
Now "Go Take A Hike"
A great blog Julia. A few more tips to add in if I may.
Buy close fitting socks, the ergonomic type. They do not move around the foot so reduces blisters as there is no friction.
Add vaseline between the toes to reduce rubbing and therefore blisters. That is also a common way of developing Athletes foot, fungal issues and verrucas.
Finally, let’s save the High street outfitters. Before you buy walking shoes or boots, get your feet measured! The last time you probably had that done was at Junior school. Your feet do change and it really does not pay to cut corners and buy off the internet second guessing your foot size. Outdoor shops really do have a vast knowledge ad skills to ensure you can buy the right kit for you. It can ultimately SAVE you a fortune and a lot of pain with consequences, such as buying medical supplies, time off work, the inconvenience and expense of professional medical bodies to remedy issues.
Brilliant! Thank you for the comments. Have you ever tried one of those Compeed stick things? Some people rave about them but I have never really used one? (also good for preventing chafing in other areas!).
I completely agree with getting your feet measured. I always thought I was a size four, but I am actually a size five after getting them measured properly at Cotswold Outdoors. It is also worth noting that your feet swell when walking, so I usually buy a half a size too big.
Julia
Great blog Julia, I would also add something about a snack – high energy. You never know when you may be longer than expected. We planned a 10km walk last year and it ended up being 18km because a fence was blocked and we had to back track. We had no food with us as it was supposed to be a short walk and only had loads of water and we both could have done with something to eat so always carry a bar of something now. Also carry the compeed blister pack – it hardly weighs anything. I have one of the stick things and they do work especially if you feel your feet getting hot in one place – it stops it getting the blister.
I swear by Runderwear, yes they are a higher price but I have two pairs of pants that three years later still look like new and they are amazing! Highly recommend all Runderwear products 🙂
Thanks Alison – I completely agree with the snacks (I am not sure why I forgot that!). I feel a slight revision of the blog coming on! 🙂
PS – Runderwear rocks!