These Shoes Are Made For Walking...

To walk or not to walk?  That is the question.  And it's one that has a very simple answer.  If you are mobile (i.e.: not restricted due to physical limitations), then walking is a fantastic way to jump start your fitness routine.  It's relatively low-impact (unless you are hiking mountain or off road trails), it can help you gradually build up your endurance, and can help teach you how to breath properly while exercising.  All of these things may come across as very simple or maybe even common sense.  But walking is a cornerstone for fitness in my book.

For me, after a good walk my legs are usually shot.  Which after a long day at work, usually feels pretty amazing.  Plus, if you walk outside; then you get to take in the beauty of God's creation and maybe even some socialization on your path.  For instance, last night the family and I took a 2.43 mile walk through our town.  This walk involved a detour by our local park, a store to grab a drink for the trip (we got Gatorades, no sodas here), and then the return trip back.  For us, this was our longest distance walked with our baby.  She seemed to love the trip, and so did we.  Granted pushing the baby stroller for a little better than a mile a piece, it was a nice workout all around.

But during out trip, we passed so many people who were out walking for fitness.  Some were walking, and some were riding bicycles.  We passed solo walkers and runners, we passed couples, and even families.  It was nice to see people putting their technology away long enough to get outside and get some fresh air and a little healthier.

So my point in this short post, is to not discount the advantages of walking.  Remember a good rule of thumb for walking.  Good shoes and stay hydrated.  The rest of the world is there for the taking.

Go outside!

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Workout Routine: Tuesday

As a new parent, trying to balance home responsibilities with getting fit can be a challenge. It is extremely easy to walk in the front door and run all evening either getting things around the house done, quality family time, and giving the little one attention.  That leaves me with either the late evenings or fitting in a quick workout on my lunch break (when I can).

I usually try to make it a "Workout Lunch" several times a week at a minimum.  With my workload, sometimes that isn't feasible either.  So I try to tailor my workouts to be completed somewhere within a 45 to 50 minutes block of time.  This will give me plenty of time to exercise and still leave a few minutes to get ready before heading back to the job.

So here is today's workout routine:

The sets marked with a (PR) designate my personal record to date.  It looks like a simple workout.  However, it took me about 50 minutes (give or take a minute or so) and I was in a mad sweat when I finished.  I have no clue how to results of this workout will play into my current weight loss.  But I know one thing, my abs and shoulders are going to feel this one later today.

And it sure beats sitting around and eating junk on my lunch break!

PS- I do not substitute a workout for a meal.  I do eat, I just eat a quick lunch after my workouts.  It is prudent to replenish your body with water and proper nutrients after exercising.  (In other words, don't flop down on the couch).

*Disclaimer: I am NOT a medical professional. Before starting or participating in ANY exercise routine, please consult your doctor or physician for advice on what may work best for you.  The record of exercise on this page is simply for my personal records and accountability in my fitness goals. Feel free to use any or all of this workout as you see fit.  However, understand you do so at your own risk.  Improper use of exercises or workout equipment can lead to injury.

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