Walking is an excellent form of exercise for a variety of reasons. It’s convenient, requires no equipment and is easy on your joints. Whether you’re just starting to exercise or have been active for many years, walking can help you lose weight and get fit. However, just walking isn’t enough. A well-rounded exercise routine also includes strength training, which will improve your fitness level and help prevent injury.
A balanced strength training program includes exercises to target your lower body, upper body and core. Strong legs will help you get faster and walk longer. A strong core helps support the entire body and maintain posture. Strong arms help keep proper form while walking, especially as your legs tired and fatigue sets in. Use these effective strength exercises to complement your walking routine and become a stronger, fitter walker!
Skater Squats
Squats target many of the muscles in your lower body, including the quadriceps and hamstrings. Skater squats also work your outer thigh, which is often neglected in the forward motion of walking.
Forward Lunges
Lunges target your quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes, which all get a workout while walking. Forward lunges help improve balance, so hold on to a chair for additional support, if needed.
Calf Raises
Have you ever noticed your calves start burning when you walk? Exercises like this one will strengthen the calf muscles, preventing burn and fatigue from setting in.
Planks
As one of the most effective exercises for your core, planks strengthen both your abdominals and lower back. A strong core helps you walk with better posture, which also aids in breathing.
Supermans
When you think of a strong core, abdominals are the first muscles to come to mind. However, a strong lower back is just as important, and this exercise targets it effectively.
Pendulums
Training your body in ways it isn’t used to improve joint stability and reduces the risk of injury. This lateral movement works your muscles in a different way than you get from the forward movement of walking.
Pushups
This exercise strengthens the chest, shoulders, arms and core- all at the same time! A strong upper body will help power you up a steep hill and push you to walk a little faster.
Triceps Dips
A great isolation exercise for your triceps that can be done at home, at the office, or anywhere else you can find a sturdy chair.
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