WHAT'S YOUR PLEASURE?

What do you like to do for fun or relaxation? Is it something you can combine with walking to improve your general well being?

If you like to read, consider getting an MP3 player of some sort (many are very inexpensive now) and listen to a book while you walk. Some libraries now offer free MP3 book downloads and the nifty new Walkaway I blogged about recently.

If you like music, it's easy to get a small radio or MP3 player to listen to your favorite bands or singers. Keep the beat up tempo so that it'll make you move your body faster.

If you enjoy TV - walk in front of your television. Join a club and watch TV while you walk on the treadmill or simply walk in place in front of your own TV during one of your favorite programs. You'll be surprised how quickly you'll work up to walking 30 or more minutes if you're watching an engrossing show. Better yet if you can TiVo or tape it and fast forward thru commercials so that your interest is maintained the entire time. No potty or snack breaks.

I'm a crocheter. I must admit that I cannot crochet AND walk - but many can. I ran an informal poll on my online crochet discussion list of 4,000 members. Quite a few volunteered that they can both walk and crochet. I'm impressed. I can barely walk and chew gum at the same time! But, if you like to crochet or knit and can walk while doing that, then go for it! In my old neighborhood, there was a young woman who walked - fast! - while reading a paperback book every day - wearing high heeled boots. Not only was I impressed with her speed, I was impressed that she didn't fall and break her face! She must have loved that book!

Like sports? Listen to a game or watch one on those teensy hand-carried TV's. Same for game shows. Wheel of Fortune whizzes by when we watch it most evenings. That would be a painless 30 minute walk for me. Same for Jeopardy, another favorite of mine. What about video games? Solitaire on the computer is a real time-killer. Get a hand-held solitaire game and play to your heart's content while you walk the track.

Birdwatchers, moms and dads with strollers, dog owners, and outdoorsy types have no excuse for not walking. Just tie on your shoes and do your favorite thing. My dog NEVER complains about going for a walk! Neither did my kids when they were stroller age.

So, no excuses. Find something to make your walk a time you look forward to. Remember, having a walking buddy is always a plus. If you don't have one in person, get your cell phone, call up your buddy, and walk and talk. You'll enjoy your walk and maintain your friendship effortlessly. Scheduling your walk time is just as important as scheduling your bill-paying, your teeth cleaning, and your oil changes. General maintenance that keeps things working well.



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Remember my 100% GUARANTEE. Should you decide to stop walking and resume your old habits, I personally guarantee that you'll get back 100% of your former life - your pain, your lifestyle, your attitude.