Do you stop in middle of your exercises? {Your Opinion}

This question is prompted by two facts. One of my friends with whom I regularly go for a walk always gets tired by the end of fourth round and prefers to sit down before continuing. We walk on a walking track of around 750 metres on which we prefer to take four rounds every night. Also, I have another friend whom I used to accompany occasionally on her walking trips and she used to totally halt in between the walks because she used to get tired. And, no it never used to be brisk or on a very difficult terrain either and not long even (around just 1km) and she always had jogging shoes on!!!

Yes, I do feel bad for people who are young and can't walk even that much. This is when I always realize how important it is to be physically active because I do not desire to be in either of my above-mentioned friend's place. I am lazy and that's where it all ends. But, I just wanted you to ask if you stop in between when you are doing any mild form of exercise. Also, it opens up an interesting theory which I have been meaning to share with you all since quite long.

Did you know that when you are exercising, it is advised to vary your paces with time. So, for example, if you are walking, start slowly and then work up to a brisk walking pace and then suddenly slow your pace to slow walk and then keep on varying the speeds of your walk. Likewise, when you are cycling, going from vigorous to light to medium to heavy to vigorous is recommended. The reason is it improves stamina and burns more calories. But, at any point of time, stopping the exercise in between is never EVER recommended. If you are used to doing so, never ever do that!!! Always start slow and end slowly and if you feel you are tired, slow down but NEVER STOP.

So, for how long do you take your walks or keep your exercises going? Do you prefer to stop or vary your paces?

PS: For all the book lovers, check out my review of "The Krishna Key", the latest anthropological thriller by Ashwin Sanghi here. Looking forward to seeing you there :)

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Walking for Weight Loss

In the Lose Weight with simple Habit series, last week we discussed how drinking adequate amount of water can help you to lose weight. Today, I would be talking about another very simple habit which will help your body improve its metabolism and consequently, help in burning the fat more efficiently.

Today's Habit: Take a 20 minutes walk or stroll daily

Walking is among the most effective form of exercises without over-straining you. And, it is also one of the most effective weight loss exercises you can do. A 20 minute walk daily provides enough of the physical exercise you need to keep your fat burning consistently. Walking improves your metabolism and the amount of oxygen you inhale daily. Oxygen is important for the proper functioning of the organs and more oxygen you inhale, the better would the results be. Improved metabolism helps burn fat more efficiently and helps with easy digestion of the food. If you have ever thought of an exercise which will take care of every part of your body, Walking is your answer. You can walk any time of the day with whatever speed you are comfortable with. You need not do 'running walk' to help your body. A peaceful walk at a normal pace is enough to give your body a boost and if you are consistent, you would realize that your pace of walking improves day by day. One thing to remember is to take care of your posture while walking. Keep your back straight and chest stiff. Do not slouch while walking.

Walking in the early morning is a very good way to give your body the fresh oxygen available. The air in the morning is purer than that in the evening. A slow walk in the morning air will awaken all your senses and you will feel your body has rejuvenated. It will keep you energetic all day long and your quality of sleep will improve if you stick to the habit. Do not forget to have a glass or two of water before beginning your walk. If you get bored of walking (which is kind of difficult), try to change your surroundings everyday. Walk along different paths everyday. Ask a friend to accompany you, take a jukebox along with you or observe nature on your walk. You can even plan on your day or take a 'me time' during your walk. When you make walking a part of your daily routine with such involvements, it will not feel as work but rather become a habit without which you will not be able to live. So, go ahead and take a walk now and feel the difference. 

A tip: A Walk on soft green grass (wet with dew) early in the morning with naked feet. It is an acupuncture therapy and is great for eye sight.