So you think that walking is dull and boring and doesn`t really do much to either help you lose weight, or keep your interest level up. Adding these steps can give you a walk that provides both perspiration and inspiration.
Walk with powerPerfect a confident stride: As you step forward, roll the foot from heel to toe without locking the knee. Arms are bent at a 90-degree angle, swinging parallel to your body. To increase your pace, take shorter, more frequent steps. This is your basic walk. Do it for 5 minutes, then incorporate the moves below in 1 to 2-minute intervals, resuming your power walk for 2 minutes in between each variation.
Burn off adrenalineStand with feet shoulder-width apart. Place hands behind head, elbows pointing forward. Raise left knee, then rotate your torso, bringing your right elbow toward the left knee (bend your standing leg slightly and be careful not to tug on your neck). Alternate bringing your elbows to the opposite knee. In addition to getting your heart rate up quickly, this will help burn off the adrenaline overload caused by the fight-or-flight response. Getting rid of tension in small doses keeps it from building up.
Fight backStand with feet shoulder-width apart. With hands in fists, place them on both sides of your face at cheek level, palms facing in and elbows pointing toward the ground. Throw a punch with your right arm. As you extend the arm, turn it so the palm of your fist faces the ground. Return to start, turning your fist back inward. Quickly repeat with the left arm. Each one-two combination is one count. Do 50. Imagine punching away at whatever is bothering you.
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Shrug it offStand tall with abdominals contracted. In an exaggerated movement, bring your shoulders up to your ears and left them drop back, bringing the shoulder blades together. Repeat 5 to 10 times, releasing your shoulders down as far as possible each time. During the movement, visualise shrugging off an imaginary backpack filled with all your cares and woes. Picture yourself dropping it by the side of the road and walking away from your problems. This is your time to enjoy, not to worry.
Look to the skyCount to 4 in time with your steps as you walk. On the fourth count, look up and simultaneously push your palms straight over your head, keeping elbows near your ears.Use the exercise to block negative thoughts. Mentally shout Yes!" as you raise your arms. Of if you`re feeling angry, combat the anger by shouting No!"
Try one. Or try a combo. Just do whatever works best for you!