Walking for Heath and Weight Loss

It is well known that taking a walk is the easiest, most accessible and body friendly way to boost your metabolism, lose weight and exercise. But new research from San Diego State University shows that you can dramatically improve your results simply by measuring your pace to ensure that you are taking at least 100 steps per minute.

Walking at a pace of at least 100 steps per minute gives your heart and lungs a workout, increasing your weight loss and overall fitness. Take a watch with a second hand on your walk and count how many steps you take in a minute. You are probably already walking faster than 100 steps a minute, but it’s helpful to know what it feels like, so if you find yourself spending too much time gazing at nature, you can remember to pick up the pace.

Remember that for optimum health, you need to walk 10,000 steps every day. This is easy to track, you just need a pedometer - they cost about $20 at Target - to track the steps you take.You will be surprised at how much walking you already do. Getting dressed, running errands, work and trips to the grocery store all count towards your daily goal of 10,000 steps. Add in a brisk walk at lunchtime or before dinner and you will be on the fast track to health and fitness.

Exercise and Metabolism - What Time is Best?

Which is better for your metabolism -  to exercise in the morning or later in the afternoon?

Mornings are a good time to get up and get going. Exercising in the morning gives your metabolism a boost that lasts throughout the day, helping you to feel energized and healthy. So morning is a great time to exercise if you like running, walking or long bike rides.

The afternoon has its benefits, too. Your body is warmer, so your muscles are more flexible and ready to work hard. Building muscle mass increases your everyday metabolism for better overall results.  Plus, a stop at the gym on the way home from work helps you  leave the stresses of the day behind, so you arrive home happy and relaxed. Try yoga, toning and weight lifting in the afternoon and early evening.

But regardless of your workout, the best time to exercise is the time you can stick with. No exercise plan is a good one if you don’t have time for it!

Use Exercise to Pump Up Your Metabolism

Want To Give Your Metabolism an Early Morning Lift? Exercise!

Nothing gets your metabolism up and running like exercise, and doing it first thing in the morning gives your metabolism a boost that lasts all day, maximizing your fat burning potential. Exercise burns calories and increases muscle tissue that continues to work hard to keep you lean, even while you sleep.

To burn calories, the best workout is aerobic exercise, like walking, swimming, stair climbing or cycling. In addition to the calories you burn during your workout, your metabolism stays pumped for 6-8 hours, burning calories long after you’ve put away your gym shoes.

Consider adding a day or two of toning to your fitness regiment. Toning not only burns calories, but it increases muscle mass to keep you looking your best - fit and lean.

Get Moving!