Walk Away the Pounds {guest post by Melody}
I have never been a very physically active person. I don’t really like exercise. I won’t go so far as to say I hate it, there are certainly activities I enjoy that just so happen to involve physical exertion but it’s not usually my idea of a good time. I won’t even begin to share my feelings about gyms and other fitness programs with you. You’re smart, you can probably figure those out.
So it shouldn’t have been a surprise when earlier this year I found myself tipping the scale at a weight I never ever thought I’d see. It was time for a change and physical activity that I didn’t absolutely hate had to be a part of it. I know myself well enough to know I will not stick with something I don’t like. There was no point signing up for a gym membership, or picking up a Jillian Michael’s DVD; I wouldn’t stick with it.
My walking routine isn’t anything special but it works for me. I started out walking 3 days a week for 20-30 minutes at a moderate pace, within a couple week I’d increased my speed, my duration and my frequency to 40-50 brisk minutes 5 days a week. Walking is the perfect exercise because you don’t need much, depending on the conditions and the time of year.
Here are my walking necessities:
Walking Sneakers: Spend the extra few bucks and purchase sneakers specifically meant for walking. I hit a speciality store and made sure the sales associate knew I wanted a walking sneaker and not one made for running (they are different, who knew!). You want comfortable shoes with good ankle and arch support.
Music: I take my iPhone and headphones with me when I walk: I have a playlist of upbeat tunes that keep my motivation and my pace up.
Tracking App: There’s nothing more motivating then seeing your stats increase as you get stronger, so keeping track is key. I use RunKeeper (set to the “walking” mode), it tells me distance, duration and average pace. It keeps track of all my progress and lets me know when I’ve beat a personal record.
Clothing: All you really need is a comfy outfit. And whatever else the weather may require. I walk in all weather: hot, rainy or even snowy so I have a couple different outer layers to keep myself warm and/or dry.
What I really like about walking is that it’s simple. It’s uncomplicated and anyone can do it. Even if you only walk at a snail’s pace, you’re doing something and you will see results and get stronger. I also like walking because it’s my quiet time. It’s the time when I can get away from the hustle and bustle of life and get my sweat on. Aside from listening to music, I also pray the Rosary or Divine Mercy Chaplet so walking also means I get some prayer time in!
I’m down 30 pounds in five months. Thanks to eating healthy (a combo of Weight Watchers and the Whole30) and in large part to walking. Don’t ever think that walking isn’t enough, that it’s senior’s exercise or won’t make a difference in your fitness level because that’s simply not true: walking is a great activity and I promise you, you won’t regret it!
About Melody
I’m married to the love of my life and every day we grow more faithful and happier. I’m a Catholic NFP-advocate/instructor; an administrative assistant by day and housewife by night. I love beautiful things and I do my best to find them on our budget. I’m trying my best to live naturally, environmentally and health conscious as possible. I love to cook and try new things. I’m organized and have a very small creative side… but I still try my hand at crafty DIY projects occasionally. I love books and beautiful music. I blog at Melody’s Harmonies or you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or Twitter or all 4! Thanks so much for having me Gina!
Love this Melody! You look great! This is so encouraging to me too! I’ve gained weight after losing most all post-partum. I have a back injury that has flared terribly since my second child so it’s been hard to find something I can do without hurting my lower back again. My neighbor and I have started walking the past few weeks and I’m encouraged that walking helped you look so wonderful! Praying it will be good to me too! 🙂
Amanda-I hope the walking will be great for you! I bet having someone who will walk with you not only makes it more enjoyable but also helps you stay accountable!
Thanks Amanda!!
Good for you Melody! Totally inspiring! I need to get my butt into gear now too!
Cassie, I’m glad you found Melody’s post inspiring!
Thanks Cassie!!! 🙂
This is great, Melody! Have you blogged about your Whole 30/ WW approach? I’d be interested in hearing more.
That is a great question! I will make sure Melody sees your comment!
Thanks Laura! I haven’t written about it but that’s a great post! I’ll get one in the works for sure. It really does work for me so I’d be happy to share it!