While walking is one of the simplest ways to exercise, I still prepare in certain ways before I get into my outdoor walking workouts. In general, I lay my workout gear out the night before, but that just makes my morning routine flow more smoothly. Besides, we're all about keeping things simple over here, so that's one way that helps me. Along with that, I have a few items that I must have on my walks to make things easier all around. Some you may have, but a few items may be a couple of things you want to consider, especially as we prepare for our next walking challenge.
Let's start with the obvious. Walking shoes. I cannot tell you how much these made a difference for the support and comfort of my feet when I purchased a pair. My walking shoes are built to handle the impact of constant pounding on the pavement. I could immediately feel the difference when I wore them in comparison to my cross trainers. Now, I know they can be a bit pricey, so for the sake of getting started, use what you have. However, if you decide you want to be consistent with walking, I would highly recommend investing in a good pair of walking shoes. There are multiple options to choose from, so take your time to find the pair that is right for you.
Sun or no sun, I have on my sunscreen. I use it on my face, and I have a lip balm with SPF as well. We just don't want to take any chances here, and while being outdoors in cooler weather can be drab and dreary, we still want to protect our exposed skin. So, while fewer body parts may be out in the cold seasons, I make sure to apply a good sunscreen that will last the length of my walk. They are reasonably priced, and I have found something that goes on well and does not leave that mess on my skin. That was a whole debacle last year, but that's a story for another time.
Of course you're going to want a little entertainment, so a simple pair of earbuds are a must with something good to listen to. Make a great upbeat playlist (like one with 80s and 90s music😁) or find some cool podcasts and listen to and pass the time away. I'm a fan of true crime, but I'm picky about the storyteller. It just makes a difference for me. An audiobook is another great way to go. Now, most times I have to hold an actual book in order to really take in the information I'm reading, but last year I started listening to celebrity memoirs and it was a game changer for me. I enjoy them a lot and my walks go so fast. Let me know if you want the list of what I've listened to so far.
A simple pedometer or tracking app will help a lot if you like to monitor your step count for the day. I use both. My pedometer was a $15 Amazon find that gets the job done and my tracking app on my phone is great while I'm out walking. However, when I'm at home, I'm not as attached to my phone, so I keep the pedometer on me at all times to get a more accurate step count. They're not perfect, but they help give me a general idea of how my day is coming along.
While the four previous things I mentioned are what I use daily for my walks, I have one other thing and I'll classify as optional but highly recommended if possible. A walking buddy or a accountability partner. I understand that's not available to everyone, and you shouldn't let it stop you, but it helps. Since walking my first challenge, so many ladies have requested to join in because of the support of community. It's nice having like minded people with similar goals, and it pushes you in ways you can't even imagine some days. Building a community will be the best part in this next round of walking two miles a day.
Well, I hope this list helps. Keep it simple to start, and please feel free to join me on these outdoor walking workouts. We're just walking, but we're growing in other ways. What are you challenging yourself to this season?
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