When trying to lose weight, don't overlook walking as an important part of your weight loss regimen.
Knowing the right way to incorporate walking with your sleeping, and eating habits, you can beef up your weight loss progress. Before you get started, it's important to have good walking shoes.
Planning your meals and snacks around your walking can have an impact on your ability to burn calories and fat. It's important to have a protein packed snack about an hour and a half to two hours prior to your walk. Your body will be able to convert the nutrients into energy during your walk and help you burn fat and calories. It's also helpful to have a bit of protein after your walk so you don't burn muscle. Walking more doesn't mean you need to eat more. The important thing is to eat balanced meals to keep your metabolism moving.
A good walking routine can help improve your sleep. There are benefits to walking in the morning or in the evening. If your sleep cycle is based more on your circadian rhythm, then an early morning walk an help with your sleep routine. However, the fading sun in the evening can help your body wind down so a brisk walk an hour or two before bed can help with your digestion which can benefit your quality of sleep.
And finally, if you want to burn more calories on your walk, jazz it up by listening to your favorite music or try changing up your route to include hills and different surfaces such as grass and pavement. This will get more muscles working for you to improve your endurance and strength as well as burn calories.
As always, be sure to consult your physician before starting any physical exercise and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
