Learn To: Make Walking the Default

1/26/20251 min read

timelapse photography of vehicles and buildings
timelapse photography of vehicles and buildings

Walk whenever you can

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, inviting individuals of all fitness levels to partake. For beginners, urban walking not only offers an immediate connection to the environment but also presents an exciting way to explore your town or city. As you step outside, you might discover hidden parks, charming cafes, or unique street art that you’ve never noticed before. Such discoveries turn each walk into an adventure, enhancing the joy of movement.

Finding time to walk doesn’t have to be a burdensome task. It can easily be woven into your everyday life. Start with a simple goal: integrate ten extra minutes of walking into your daily routine. For instance, consider walking to work or to run errands instead of driving or taking public transport.

If your workplace is too far, try parking a bit farther away or getting off a stop earlier to get a few minutes of walking in before and after your workday. There are countless opportunities throughout the day to lace up your walking shoes and get moving.

Try scheduling short walks during your breaks – stand up, stretch your legs, and step outside for a breath of fresh air. Perhaps you could even invite a colleague to join you for a walk-and-talk session. This not only integrates movement into your workday but can also foster teamwork and camaraderie.

Feel the benefits

Ultimately, the key to incorporating more walking into your routine is to embrace the concept of movement as part of your lifestyle rather than viewing it simply as exercise. As you gradually add small increments of time into your routine, take note of how your feelings towards walking evolve.

Over time, you may find that walking becomes more than just an activity; it transforms into a cherished part of your daily life, a time to mull over thorny problems or complex thoughts as well as enriching your physical health and emotional well-being.