Maybe you haven’t gotten started or could have started but did not follow through. Don’t be discouraged -- it’s never too late to give it another try, according to Jeannie Mullins of the Virginia Cooperative Extension.
“Researchers at Stanford University have found that using a pedometer can motivate us to increase our physical activity which can result in weight loss and lower blood pressures,” Mullins stated.
A pedometer is a small and relatively inexpensive device that can be clipped onto your waste band to count the number of steps walked in a day. Pedometers have been shown to increase physical activity of those who use them, up to a mile per day. A mile is about 2,000 average steps.
“Having a ‘step goal’ -- such as walking 5,000 or 10,000 steps a day -- is crucial to increased activity -- probably because having a defined goal helps keep activity in the individuals’ mind,” said Mullins.
Extra walking has paid off with individuals losing weight and lowering systolic blood pressure by an average of four points. Experts say that reducing systolic blood pressure by just two points has been shown to cut the risk of dying form a stroke by 10 percent. Doctors say by that if 10 percent would begin a regular walking program, nearly $6 billion in treating heart disease could be saved.
The first thing you need to do, before starting a walking or physical activity program is to check with your doctor. Talk with the doctor about what kind of activities that you are interested in doing and how you should being. If you have not been very active, start out slowly to avoid injuries and soreness that could discourage or prevent you from continuing on a regular bases.
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