Did you know that walking twenty minutes a day can keep the extra weight away?

Simple walking can actually be the best all around exercise for anyone. Walking has a low risk of injury, requires no monetary output and can be easily worked into a daily schedule, anywhere at any time.

Start by taking a brisk, 30 minute walk each day and reap the good health benefits such as:

* Increase cardiovascular endurance
* Lower your blood pressure and reduce stress
* Reduce bad cholesterol levels
* Gain bone strength and agility
* Loose weight or keep weight stable by burning more calories depending on your daily caloric intake

Getting Ready to Walk

Make sure to invest in a proper pair of walking shoes. I recommend New Balance, Asics or Nike these are some of most popular brands.
Comfortable, loose fitting, breathable clothing is always important. When walking in warm climates make sure to wear a hat and plenty of sun screen for protection. Your body temperature will rise so dress accordingly and make sure to have plenty of water to stay properly hydrated. Always warm-up before starting any exercise routine, walking included. Stretch out your muscles to avoid injury or shin splints. Do not forget to stretch out your back, shoulders and arms to get the blood flowing, this will eliminate tension and make your walk more effective and enjoyable.

Start your new walking program at your own pace. Forget about speed – focus on good posture, relax your shoulders and keep your head high. Swinging your arms will increase your calorie burn. Remember to take deep cleansing breaths straight through to your diaphragm, this is a great way to relieve stress and cleanse toxins from your lymph nodes. As you accelerate your speed your heart rate should increase naturally, but not so much that you cannot speak or catch your breath.

Once you have mastered to art of walking and have progressed to a few miles per day, this would be a great time to vary your speed. Try incorporating hills and stairs into your routine to take full advantage of a cardio workout. Taking long strides at a greater speed is a great way to strenghten and tone your leg muscles.

You might try walking indoors on a treadmill, this is a great alternative for bad weather so you do not miss your daily walk. Walking on a treadmill has it”s advantages, it is easier to keep a faster steady pace, there is also a setting to walk on a steady incline which is good for increasing your heart rate. Try using head phones, reading a magazine or watching the television to pass the time away. The longer you walk the more calories will be burned which leads to fat loss and a healthier, more fit you.

* Tophealthspot offers some great online health coupon codes to help save you more money on all your favorite health products, and Health & Fitness Deals. Now is the time to get in the best shape of your life, start by walking.