I once read a story about a man who ate a Big Mac every day. No fries, no drink, just a Big Mac every single day. The McDonald’s around his block knew him by first name and always had his burger ready for pick up.
The most interesting part of this story was that he was about as average looking a man as could be. Not obese, not overweight, not even chubby. A regular older man whose BMI was average for his day. At the end of his interview when asked how he looked so good, he answered, “I walk around the block every day.” A man of schedule and routine, for sure. But his walk around the block was, in fact, a 6-mile walk every day. He enjoyed a Big Mac more than anything in this world and stayed in shape from walking.
Walking is one of the most effective and consistent ways to maintain weight or lose weight. It is simple, low impact and great for mobility. Any chance you have to walk or take the stairs is a chance to be just that much more active in your everyday life. According to Mayoclinic.org, “If you add 30 minutes of brisk walking to your daily routine, you could burn about 150 more calories a day. Of course, the more you walk and the quicker your pace, the more calories you’ll burn.”
Walking is something most people can implement in their everyday life.
If you’re a college student, take an opportunity and walk to your classes. If you’re a mom, go ahead and treat yourself and your kids by walking down the block or to a local park. If you work full time, take advantage of your lunch break and go for a walk to your closest coffee shop or even a snack stand. If you own a pet, take them on a walk a couple times a week. These small changes to your everyday life will not get in the way of your busy schedule and will benefit your physical and mental health.
I walk to all my classes. I usually walk to the closest grocery store to pick up a couple things for the week and even when I go to the gym I try to walk as a cool down. The best part of walking is being able to control your pace. You can speed up to burn calories quicker or maintain a moderate pace for a longer duration for the same effect.
With the flowers blooming and spring approaching, try a nice walk. Look at the scenery, enjoy the moment!
CHRISTELLE TEMPLE is a WVU honors sophomore. She contributes a weekly column on health, fitness and motivation. Follow her on Instagram @ellesbells2. Contact her at Newsroom@DominionPost.com.
