Get Fit: One foot in front of the other

With all the talk about newfangled fitness schemes, strict diets and organized sports, I think it's important we revisit the basics every now and then. Running or brisk walking, is a great example of a mindnumbingly simple yet effective excercise to stay in proper shape. There's not much to explain here really, you pick a direction, you start moving your feet and you go in that direction until you're too tired. Sure, you could go into things like proper shoes and distance measuring and break placement, but that's all really arbitrary stuff, all you need to do is to keep your body moving.

If you aren't already in shape and are trying to get healthier, this is a good place to start training. Not only does brisk walking help increase stamina which only helps as you delve into more strenuous work-outs, but it is also an extremely simple and efficient way of burning calories. A half hour walk at standard walking pace (about 5 KM/H) burns 99 calories, speed that up to a faster pace and you burn about a 150. Not only is walking fuss-free, simple, and virtually costless, but it's effective too! Sounds almost too good to be true, doesn't it?

Among the other benefits brisk walking provides is that it makes you happier, no really it does. Studies have shown regular, moderate-intensity exercise (such as brisk walking) to be as effective as antidepressants in cases of mild to moderate depression. The endorphines, which are basically natural painkillers your body produces, your body releases as you walk have a part in this, leading to a phenomenon known as runner's high. This gives the body a sense of euphoria and helps to reduce stress and anxiety.

Hopefully that little spiel of mine has got you motivated. So stop sitting on your butt! You don't need some fancy schmancy preparatory plan, just get on out there and get moving!