You may not expect an owner of a fitness studio to advocate something free, such as walking, to kick-start your weight loss and wellness regime, but this is exactly what Daniel Bartlett, Owner of Daniel Alexandra Holistic Health and Fitness, does. He explains, ‘For many, [walking] is the most realistic, affordable and effective method of staying healthy. That is not to say walking is the most time efficient way of stripping back the pounds, and if you are looking to achieve maximum results in the shortest possible time it will leave you disappointed, but if you are patient and approach your fitness and health as a long-term plan, walking is quite possibly the best mode of exercise available.’
According to Bartlett, ‘We all know that going for a hike gets you in the great outdoors and amongst the action rather than sat indoors watching the box, but walking for health is about more than taking a leisurely stroll. Walking is most effective when it is approached like any other carefully considered exercise regime, it must be monitored and measurable. Progress is key if you want to use walking to improve, and not just maintain your health.’
Bartlett recommends that you follow his walking technique, as well as a solid nutrition plan, to amp up your wellbeing, as well as your weight loss efforts. When walking, Bartlett says, your head should be erect and centred, with your eyes looking forward 15-20 feet ahead and your chin tucked in. Make sure your shoulders are square and relaxed, with your back straight, and bend your arms at 90 degrees – close to your torso – and keep your fingers in a loose fist form.
Moving lower down your body, keep your core engaged and your bum and stomach tucked in. This is a position known as a pelvic tilt, which helps you to avoid back pain and also strengthens your lower back muscles. Obviously, your feet are key in your walking technique, so make sure that you stride out, landing on your heel and rolling forward to the ball of your foot to push off for the next step. This will help to exercise the front of your legs and calves. Don’t forget to stride, says Bartlett, and pump your arms to transform your walk from lower body to a total body aerobic workout.
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