Lose Weight with Fitness Walking

Unlike regular every day walking, fitness walking is an aerobic sport of brisk, paced, rhythmic and vigorous walking. Fitness walking is popular in the United States and Europe and it is considered one of the leading exercises of 2008. The popularity of fitness walking is easy to understand. Fitness walking doesn't require any type of special equipment, it's easy to participate, and it's generally safe for all ages, shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. And best of all, you can lose weight with fitness walking just as easily as you could with jogging or biking!

Before starting any exercise program, it's always a good idea to see your doctor to check for any pre-existing conditions. If you are in fair to good general health, starting a fitness program is very easy. The first thing you should do is purchase a good walking shoe with flexible slip-resistant soles, adequate toe room, good arch support and a well-cushioned heel. Clothing should always be loose-fitting or layered when it's cold.

Once you have your gear in place, choose a level that suits your ability. There are generally three fitness walking levels: strolling, brisk walking and race walking. Strolling is done at a rate of around 3 mph with the arms swinging loosely at the sides, while brisk walking is slightly faster at a rate of around 4 mph with an energetic arm motion. Race walking requires quicker steps, arms are at a 90 degree angle and the rate is around 5 mph. Arms should move at a natural rhythm, you should always look straight ahead and do your best to maintain good posture.

There are many major health benefits to fitness walking. Fitness walking boosts energy levels, burns body fat, improves cardiovascular performance, reduces stress, decreases health risks, improves circulation, reduces stress, it may aid in weight-loss and it helps to maintain current weight. Fitness walking also works the following muscle groups: calf muscles, hamstrings, quadriceps, and the gluteus maximus.