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Walking Shoes and GearBy Wendy Bumgardner, About.com Guide to Walking Gear up for walking with the proper walking shoes, clothing, gear and gadgets. Find out how to choose the right shoes and socks, layer your clothes for walking in all climates, and use pedometers and other gadgets.
Walking Shoes Find out how to choose the right walking shoes for the best fit and to match your walking style. Pedometers Count your walking steps with a pedometer to motivate yourself to move more throughout the day. Treadmills and Elliptical Trainers Treadmills and elliptical trainers are great choices for working out indoors. Find out what to look for when buying a treadmill or elliptical trainer. Buying lightly used equipment is often the best bargain, allowing you to buy a better treadmill for your budget. The key elements to look for are the motor horsepower rating, warranty, and workout program features. Walking Clothing The right walking clothing can keep you dry and comfortable whether walking in the heat, cold, or rain. Learn how to layer your clothing. Learn about modern high-tech fabrics that wick away sweat to prevent blisters and chafing.
Walking Packs and Water Carriers You need to carry your essentials and water comfortably. I don't recommend carrying a water bottle in your hand, as that puts stress on your arm joints. Instead, select a water carrying pack so you can drink when thirsty without straining your wrist, elbow, or shoulder. Walking Poles Walking poles come in several varieties. Fitness walking poles are also called nordic walking poles and exerstriding poles. They used in pairs to give a better workout - working the upper body and burning more calories per mile. They can be used on pavement as well as on natural trail. Trekking poles are used in pairs to give stability on rugged terrain. Single hiking sticks also lend an extra stability point.
Walking Gadgets You can use electronic gizmos to give you more data about your walking and exercise. A heart rate monitor will tell you whether you are working out with the correct intensity to improve your fitness. Speedometers can tell you how fast you are walking. Pedometers that upload data to your computer or a web site can help you track your walking workouts. Blister, Chafing and Foot Pain PreventionYou can reduce your risk of blisters and chafing by using the right socks, clothing, lubricants and other strategies. You can prevent or treat foot pain and shin pain with other items. |
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