How to Make Walking a Priority

With the daily rigors of life, from working to juggling multiple responsibilities, sometimes people make daily exercise the last item to complete on their "To-Do" lists. Although it can seem challenging to squeeze in time for physical activity, it's important to exercise, as it offers many health benefits, such as lowering high blood pressure and burning body fat. Walking is one form of exercise that caters to all fitness levels and abilities. Whether you prefer to walk solo or in small groups, you can make walking a priority in your life starting today.

Instructions

• 1

  Gather your exercise gear the night before your scheduled walk. Grab your walking shoes and exercise clothing and place them near your keys. This will serve as a visual reminder that you need to fit walking into your day.

• 2

  Set aside at least 20 to 45 minutes daily. Even if you can only walk 10 minutes a day to start, as you get stronger you can walk for longer periods of time and at higher levels of intensity. Since many people spend up to an hour or more talking on the phone or just watching television, you can commit to use this time to make walking a priority.

• 3

  Ask a spouse, friend or family member to join you on your daily walks. You are less likely to skip your walking routine as you realize that your walking buddy is depending on you. You can engage in conversations about any topic and this often helps the time pass quickly.

• 4

  Walk more. Try small steps such as parking your car further away from your destination, taking the stairs instead of the elevator or strolling around the block during your work lunch break. Every little bit of walking helps it to become a habit in your life.