No matter what we have going on in the day, we should always make sure to reserve at least 30 minutes for some exercise. Whether we’re clocking a mile for our grocery run or a stroll during our lunch break, we can probably cross a walk off our workout list. But it does get a bit repetitive, day in and day out. To spice your walking routine, we've collected some simple tips to get a little more out of your workout.
Pick up the pace
The easiest way to take your walk from boring to booming is to add some speed work. This can be anything from upping your pace to a full-on power walk. But it can also mean adding running to the mix.
Hit those inclines
One of the best ways to make your walks more challenging is to be mindful of the routes you intend to walk. Make sure to choose paths that have a few inclines thrown in here and there. Opt for routes with gradual elevation, even the smallest incline can get your heart rate up and engage your leg muscles beyond the standard walk.
Squeeze in a small workout
If your walks take you to a park, you can spruce up your workout with a little more movement. With just a park bench, you can get in a solid low-impact activity that works the whole body. From calf-raises to push-ups, add this five-minute workout when you feel you have enough energy and can take things up a notch.
Guided runs
Many people have started doing ‘guided’ runs, which means they listen to an audio coach while running. You can incorporate this into your walking routine, and it’s a great way to bring a little more mindfulness into the practice. Having a coach in your ear can help motivate you to push yourself a little more while you keep on track.