Great ideas for stepping out.
Walking is such a commonplace activity that it can seem, well, pedestrian.
Here are a few ideas for making this all-around aerobic and muscle-building activity more fun for the whole family:
- A walk in the park. Fitness walking is much more enjoyable when you take the scenic route. Rather than simply taking a stroll around the block, find walking trails, parks, beaches…any place where you can take in the scenery around you.
- Nature walk. There’s nothing like catching a glimpse of a rare or brightly colored bird. Go online, download a smartphone app or buy a field guide and learn which kinds of birds live in your area. Then note how many you see, and how often. And don’t worry about slowing your pace…our feathered friends rarely linger long enough for us to stop and gaze at them.
To increase your comfort in the great outdoors, take along some OFF!® familycare® Insect Repellent Smooth & Dry. It has a unique powder-dry formula that dries on contact, leaving your skin feeling smooth & dry. - City walk. Don’t forget that sidewalks are made for…walking. It may take a little time to get adjusted to the crowded streets of a large town or city, but people watching, architecture spotting and the simple pleasure of getting from here to there on foot can make any city excursion an amble to remember.
- Family time. Why not extend your dinner table conversation to include a nightly walk with the family? You might not break any speed records, but you’ll make up for it in familial bonding and may instill a lifelong healthy habit in your kids.
Without the distraction of cell phones, gaming devices or TVs, your kids may enjoy games like those they play in the car. For example, who can spot the most wildflowers or ID the most trees? - Walk the dog. Man’s best friend is also a family’s best walking companion. Most medium to large dogs can keep you walking at a pretty brisk pace, just right for getting the aerobic benefit you’re after. Of course, that brisk pace keeps your dog in good shape, too.
- Walk and talk. Socializing while you walk is a great way to stick to your fitness routine and stay connected with friends. In fact, you might want to start your own walking club, with a core group of dedicated walkers, a schedule of walking times, different routes and discussion topics.
- Stay cool. In the summer, try to avoid the intense midday heat by walking in the cool of early morning or evening. You’ll also avoid exposing yourself to peak sun, when the chance of getting a sunburn is higher. No matter when you walk, wear sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection to block damaging sun rays, and be sure to drink plenty of water.
- The right stuff. Unlike many other sports, walking doesn’t require expensive gear—just comfortable clothing and sneakers. A lightweight fanny pack is ideal for carrying water, keys and cell phone; for longer walks, bring along fruit or other healthy snacks in a Ziploc® brand Snack Bag.
- Set goals. How fast can you walk a kilometre? How many kilometres a week can you walk? Setting personal goals is great motivation and reaching them is rewarding and fun. No matter how small the goal, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment when you achieve it.
For more detailed tracking, try a pedometer; it calculates your total distance by multiplying the length of your average stride by the number of steps you’ve taken. It’s a great tool for gadget lovers. - Take a hike. If you’re ready for a more vigorous type of walk, try hiking. Most provincial parks and conservation areas have marked hiking trails where you can enjoy abundant shade, the coolness of a babbling stream and the challenge of hillier terrains. Be sure to invest in a pair of sturdy waterproof hiking boots, and protect yourself and your family from insect bites with OFF!® Deep Woods® insect repellents.
Whatever you do, don’t feel guilty for keeping a few of those convenience foods in the pantry. They are still more cost-effective than dining out or buying food on the go.
