{"id":13573,"date":"2026-08-17T00:03:23","date_gmt":"2026-08-17T04:03:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/how-to-lose-1-pound-per-week\/"},"modified":"2026-08-17T00:03:23","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T04:03:23","slug":"how-to-lose-1-pound-per-week","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/how-to-lose-1-pound-per-week\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Lose 1 Pound Per Week"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <a href=\"https:\/\/hop.clickbank.net\/?affiliate=infohatch&amp;vendor=J1R2C\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10614 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png\" alt=\"Profit Gen\" width=\"400\" height=\"217\" srcset=\"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png 400w, https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px-300x163.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div itemprop=\"text\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What if losing weight could start with something as simple as putting one foot in front of the other?<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Walking is one of the easiest ways to become more active, and you don&#8217;t need an expensive gym membership or an intense workout routine to get started. With consistency and a realistic daily step goal, walking can become a practical part of a weight-loss plan.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The key is knowing how much you need to walk and creating a routine you can actually stick with. Instead of relying on complicated diets or exhausting exercise programs, you can build a sustainable habit that fits naturally into your everyday life.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re ready to make walking part of your wellness routine, this guide can help you get started.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article, we&#8217;ll walk through a 10-step plan for using regular walking to support your weight-loss goals. You&#8217;ll learn about the basics behind walking for weight loss and get practical tips you can put into action today. <strong>Plus, don&#8217;t forget to download the free Weight Loss Monthly Tracker at the end of the article to help you monitor your progress and stay accountable.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-the-health-benefits-of-walking-for-weight-loss\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Health_Benefits_of_Walking_for_Weight_Loss\"\/>The Health Benefits of Walking for Weight Loss<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re planning on starting a walking regimen to boost your overall health and to lose weight, there are probably several questions on your mind.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>How many calories does walking burn? Does it put undue stress on my legs? What about shin splints? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/walking-cardio\/\" data-lasso-id=\"29343\">Does it really offer cardiovascular benefits?<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As someone who has been a runner for a quarter century, I used to think, <em>\u201cWalking? Who are you kidding?\u201d<\/em> So I continued putting stress on my feet, knees, shins, and everything else below the waist by doing hard impact workouts because I didn\u2019t fully understand the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/health-benefits-walking\/\" data-lasso-id=\"29344\">health benefits of walking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Specifically\u2026<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>1.<\/span> The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.heart.org\/HEARTORG\/HealthyLiving\/PhysicalActivity\/Walking\/Walk-Dont-Run-Your-Way-to-a-Healthy-Heart_UCM_452926_Article.jsp#.V08dmJErKM8\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29345\">American Heart Association<\/a> recommends walking over running.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>2. <\/span>Walking lowers bad cholesterol and reduces your risk for both hypertension and diabetes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>3.<\/span> The AHA and researches associated with the National Runners\u2019 Health Study looked at more than 30,000 subjects and found that, <em>\u201cMedium-intensity walking and vigorous-intensity running resulted in similar reductions in risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and possibly coronary heart disease over the study\u2019s six years.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are pretty cool reasons to start walking, right?<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After all, running can inflict gigantic stresses on your legs that amount to <a href=\"http:\/\/hypertextbook.com\/facts\/1999\/SaraBirnbaum.shtml\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29346\">seven times the person\u2019s body weight<\/a>. If the person weighs 150 pounds, that force is roughly half a ton. If you\u2019re obese, the stress on your legs if you run could be multiple tons. Compare that to walking, where the maximum force on your knees is only <a href=\"http:\/\/livehealthy.chron.com\/much-force-knees-hips-experience-walk-9868.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29347\">3.4 times your body weight<\/a>. Obviously, walking is less stressful on your lower extremities than running.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Want to build a morning routine to shed those extra pounds? Then watch this video to discover the 11 habits to lose weight and feel great:<\/p>\n<p><noscript><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"11 Healthy Morning Routine Habits to Lose Weight &amp; Feel Great\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/dX0_LRrX4wA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/noscript>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"h-how-many-calories-burned-walking-compared-to-calories-burned-running\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Many_Calories_Burned_Walking_Compared_to_Calories_Burned_Running\"\/>How Many Calories Burned Walking Compared to Calories Burned Running?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019d probably be surprised that walking can often exceed the calories burned when running.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Let\u2019s create a hypothetical friend named \u201cJohn\u201d who needs to lose weight because he weighs 300 pounds<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.runnersworld.com\/fitness-calculators\/calories-burned-calculator\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29348\">running calculator<\/a>, we can show that John will burn 908 calories by running at 4 mph for an hour. Because John weighs 300 pounds, the force on his legs is 2,000 pounds while running.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"858\" height=\"164\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"walking for weight loss - calories burned\" class=\"wp-image-17466\" data-lazy-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1.jpg 858w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-150x29.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-300x57.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-768x147.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-600x115.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-65x12.jpg 65w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-220x42.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-250x48.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-358x68.jpg 358w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-729x139.jpg 729w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 858px) 100vw, 858px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"858\" height=\"164\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1.jpg\" alt=\"walking for weight loss - calories burned\" class=\"wp-image-17466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1.jpg 858w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-150x29.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-300x57.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-768x147.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-600x115.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-65x12.jpg 65w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-220x42.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-250x48.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-358x68.jpg 358w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-1-729x139.jpg 729w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 858px) 100vw, 858px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, if John walks 3 mph for an hour, he <a href=\"http:\/\/www.shapesense.com\/fitness-exercise\/calculators\/walking-calorie-burn-calculator.shtml\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29349\">burns 540 calories<\/a>. The force on his legs is roughly 900 pounds.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"852\" height=\"173\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"walking for weight loss - calories burned\" class=\"wp-image-17467\" data-lazy-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2.jpg 852w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-150x30.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-300x61.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-768x156.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-600x122.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-65x13.jpg 65w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-220x45.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-250x51.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-358x73.jpg 358w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-729x148.jpg 729w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 852px) 100vw, 852px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"852\" height=\"173\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2.jpg\" alt=\"walking for weight loss - calories burned\" class=\"wp-image-17467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2.jpg 852w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-150x30.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-300x61.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-768x156.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-600x122.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-65x13.jpg 65w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-220x45.jpg 220w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-250x51.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-358x73.jpg 358w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/walking-calculator-2-729x148.jpg 729w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 852px) 100vw, 852px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John decides to push his walking speed to four mph, he burns 747 calories, which is 82 percent of what he would burn running the same distance for less than half the stress on his legs.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If John just wants to stroll and \u201csmell the roses,\u201d he can walk 2 mph for two hours and burn 857 calories.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In all cases, walking means less discomfort and pain than running.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-does-walking-to-lose-weight-cause-those-exercise-aches-and-pains\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_Walking_to_Lose_Weight_Cause_Those_Exercise_%E2%80%9CAches_and_Pains%E2%80%9D\"\/>Does Walking to Lose Weight Cause Those Exercise \u201cAches and Pains?\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to Carol Torgan, who is an exercise physiologist and a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine, <em>\u201c<\/em><a href=\"http:\/\/www.webmd.com\/fitness-exercise\/sore-muscles-dont-stop-exercising?page=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29350\"><em>The aches and pains should be minor and are simply indications that muscles are adapting to your fitness regimen<\/em><\/a><em>.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u200bThe big problem is with people that aren&#8217;t very fit and go out and try these things; they get all excited to start a new class and the instructors don&#8217;t tell them that they might get sore. To them they might feel very sore, and because they aren&#8217;t familiar with it, they might worry that they&#8217;ve hurt themselves. Then they won&#8217;t want to do it again.<\/p>\n<p><cite>Carol Torgan, American College of Sports Medicine<\/cite><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr. Brian Parr, an associate professor in the department of exercise and sports science at the University of South Carolina Aiken, <a href=\"https:\/\/lifehacker.com\/5895140\/10-stubborn-exercise-myths-that-wont-die-debunked-by-science\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29351\">agrees with her<\/a>. He says, <em>\u201cThe idea that exercise should hurt is simply wrong\u2014muscle pain during or following exercise usually suggests an injury. However, some muscle soreness is unavoidable, especially if you are new to exercise.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, it\u2019s good to be sore but not hurt.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-why-can-t-i-lose-weight-with-a-pill\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CWhy_Cant_I_Lose_Weight_with_a_Pill%E2%80%9D\"\/>\u201cWhy Can\u2019t I Lose Weight with a Pill?\u201d<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"walking for beginners\" style=\"width:400px;height:400px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Walking-for-Weight-Loss-03.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Walking-for-Weight-Loss-03.jpg\" alt=\"walking for beginners\" style=\"width:400px;height:400px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I can also hear some of you inhaling sharply at the thought of any discomfort. What about diet pills or that new diet I heard about? Believe it or not, the Mayo Clinic has <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/weight-loss\/in-depth\/weight-loss\/art-20046409?pg=1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29352\">actually looked at this<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In an eight-week, independent study, the researchers used a popular raspberry ketone supplement versus a placebo. The 45 participants in the study who completed the entire eight-week trial reported their weight-loss results. The group receiving the supplement lost and average of 4.2 pounds during the eight weeks; the group receiving the placebo reported losing an average of 0.9 pounds during the eight weeks.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the surface, it looks like the supplement worked and that raspberry ketones were responsible. The supplement, however, contained nearly a dozen ingredients, so it was impossible to say with any certainty that it was the raspberry ketones that were responsible for the weight loss.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, the length of the study was too short for the researchers to determine the long-term efficacy of the supplement with any degree of correlation. In comparison, a healthy diet without fads or supplements put together with a moderate exercise regimen <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/healthyweight\/losing_weight\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29353\">will result in weight loss of 1 to 2 pounds per week<\/a>, which would have been a loss of 4 to 8 pounds in the eight weeks of the aforementioned study.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Back to John\u2026<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s go back and look at our friend \u201cJohn,\u201d who walks for an hour a day.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s commonly known that a pound equals 3,500 calories.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on how fast he walks, John will burn between 500 and 750 calories a day. In a week, he\u2019ll burn between 2,500 and 3,500 calories.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So, if he keeps to his 4-mph-regimen, he\u2019ll lose a pound a week without even making any dietary changes as long as he eats no more than 2,000 calories a day.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By cutting 500 calories out of his diet daily, he\u2019ll lose an additional pound a week.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When I think about what I used to do, I can\u2019t imagine doing it anymore. I enjoy walking for weight loss and more importantly for the health benefits. In fact, nowadays, I like to combine both walking and running in order to maintain a balanced lifestyle that\u2019s free from the pain often associated with the constant pounding of putting in hard miles while running.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, once you start walking, it\u2019ll become a habit. All that annoying muscle soreness will slowly disappear, and you\u2019ll be refreshed and feeling good after every walk.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you incorporate the advice given in the following 10 step walking for weight loss plan, you can build a great walking routine that helps you lose weight and gain the health benefits that I just mentioned.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-1-talk-to-your-doctor-first\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Talk_to_Your_Doctor_First\"\/>1. Talk to Your Doctor First<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"does walking help you lose weight\" style=\"width:400px;height:400px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Walking-for-Weight-Loss-02.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Walking-for-Weight-Loss-02.jpg\" alt=\"does walking help you lose weight\" style=\"width:400px;height:400px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although it might seem superfluous to see a doctor just to begin walking, it is <em>always<\/em> a good idea to check with your physician beforehand.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/fitness\/in-depth\/exercise\/art-20047414\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29354\">Mayo Clinic<\/a> recommends such a visit especially when you have certain pre-existing conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Similarly, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends seeing a doctor before beginning a walking regimen if you\u2019re 35 or older, you are significantly overweight, or you have a family history of heart disease even if you don\u2019t have it yourself.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, a doctor will check you over to see if you develop shortness of breath with exertion, discomfort or pain in your upper body, dizziness or vertigo with exertion, or even just simple swelling of your lower extremities. Any of these must first be dealt with before you begin your walking routine.Perhaps most important, a thorough physical examination might find something serious about which you knew nothing.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I have a friend who had finally decided to start walking to get in shape. I told him he should see his doctor before he started out, but he waved it off. After his first mile, he developed numbness in his right calf, and the skin was hot and red behind his knee. Fortunately, he knew enough to stop and go straight to the emergency room.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It turns out my friend had a deep-vein thrombosis (DVT). They gave him low molecular-weight heparin and broke up the DVT safely, but if he had ignored the pain and continued, he might have died from an embolism.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In short, don\u2019t take chances\u2026talk to a doctor and get medical clearance before you start to walk.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-2-get-the-right-walking-equipment\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Get_the_Right_Walking_Equipment\"\/>2. Get the Right Walking Equipment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.heart.org\/HEARTORG\/HealthyLiving\/PhysicalActivity\/Walking\/What-to-Wear-When-You-Walk_UCM_461783_Article.jsp#.V1CFwJErKM8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29355\">What is the right equipment?<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To start with, <strong>walkers should have comfortable, loose-fitting workout clothes<\/strong>. Although cotton was the fabric of choice in times past, it\u2019s better to have \u201cwicking\u201d fabrics that breathe easily and allow for moisture to pass through them. Such fabrics, which are available in many brands, also help reduce chafing in problem areas because they create less friction than cotton.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Women should also have a properly fitted sports bra, preferably made of wicking material.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re going to walk when it\u2019s cold, it\u2019s best to remember the C.O.L.D. mnemonic device that the <a href=\"https:\/\/phc.amedd.army.mil\/topics\/discond\/cip\/Pages\/ColdCasualtiesInjuries.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29356\">United States Army<\/a> uses:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep it <span>C<\/span>lean<\/li>\n<li>Keep it <span>O<\/span>pen to avoid overheating<\/li>\n<li>Keep it <span>L<\/span>ayered<\/li>\n<li>Keep it <span>D<\/span>ry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dirt and mud hold water, which is your No. 1 enemy during cold weather. Evaporation is a cooling process, which can produce bad or even dire situations in the cold, such as frostnip or frostbite. Becoming overheated also creates excess water in the form of sweat. Layers of loose clothing create air pockets that are warmed by body heat but also breathe to reduce overheating. All of these items are to make sure you stay dry.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re going to walk when it\u2019s hot, be sure to carry sunscreen, enough water <span>(Note: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/best-water-filter-pitchers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29357\"><span>here\u2019s a pitcher filter that I recommend that can give you a constant supply of water<\/span><\/a><span>.)<\/span> and\/or electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated. Watch for signs of <a href=\"http:\/\/orthoinfo.aaos.org\/topic.cfm?topic=a00319\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29358\">heat-related injury<\/a> and take appropriate steps to counteract them, such as finding shade and continuing to hydrate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After you\u2019re \u201cdressed for success,\u201d you have to <span>pick the right walking shoe<\/span>. In addition to wearing the right size, you should also ask your doctor when you see him or her if you overpronate, underpronate, or neither. This video explains the differences.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s imperative to pick walking shoes that match your degree of pronation. Once you know whether you\u2019re \u201cunder\u201d or \u201cover,\u201d a shoe professional will be able to make a proper recommendation on which shoes you need.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In any case, it\u2019s always a good idea to take along a spare pair of shoes and some extra socks on long walks. Your feet could swell through exertion, and it\u2019d be far better to change shoes than to \u201ctough it out\u201d and wind up with blisters that\u2019ll prevent you from walking for an extended period. Extra socks will help your feet stay dry, particularly if you combine them with a high-quality foot powder.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One other piece of \u201cwalking equipment\u201d you might consider is to download an audio-based fitness workout app. \u00a0<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/aaptiv-app\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29359\">Here&#8217;s the one that I recommend<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-3-know-how-many-steps-you-take-walking-a-mile\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Know_How_Many_Steps_You_Take_Walking_a_Mile\"\/>3. Know How Many Steps You Take Walking a Mile<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two options when it comes to calculating the average steps per mile: You can make a \u201cguesstimation\u201d or you can use a step-tracking device like a pedometer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/steps-in-a-mile\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29360\">In this article<\/a>, I talked about how a two-foot stride is approximately 2,640 steps in a mile while a three-foot stride is 1,760 steps in a mile. This isn\u2019t an exact measurement, but is enough to get started.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, if you want an exact recommendation, then I recommend wearing a quality pedometer. (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/pedometer-reviews\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29361\"><strong>Read this article to learn how to find the device that\u2019s perfect for you<\/strong><\/a>.)<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To maximize the results you get from a pedometer, I recommend following the instructions in this short video for checking the accuracy of your pedometer:<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you\u2019ve checked the accuracy of your pedometer, find a 400 meter track. Take a meter stick with you to the track. Remember, 1,609 meters equals 1 mile. Take the meter stick and measure 9 meters past the start line. Then, set your pedometer to zero. Walk four laps and then the extra 9 meters you measured. Now, you have the number of steps you take in a mile, and you can plan your \u201cwalking day\u201d accordingly.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-4-find-your-baseline\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Find_Your_Baseline\"\/>4. Find Your Baseline<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To figure out the point from which you\u2019re beginning your walking regimen, measure the number of steps you take for 2 to 3 days using your pedometer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t do anything differently from what you normally do. This average number of steps is your baseline. Using your baseline as a starting point, you will develop your regimen by gradually increasing the number of steps you take daily.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They key here is to come up with average for your baseline. So if you walk 1,000 steps on day 1, then 3,000 on day 2, and finally 2,000 on day 3, <span>then your baseline would be 2,000 average steps<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-5-pick-the-right-walking-weight-loss-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Pick_the_%E2%80%9CRight%E2%80%9D_Walking_Weight_Loss_Plan\"\/>5. Pick the \u201cRight\u201d Walking Weight Loss Plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obviously, if you haven\u2019t done exercise of any kind for a long time, you can\u2019t just go out and tear up the streets multiple hours a day without hurting yourself.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the other end of the spectrum, if you\u2019re a seasoned walker, you don\u2019t want to take it easy unnecessarily because you\u2019ll backslide.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two chief plans to follow:<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s call them\u2026<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complete Couch Potato<\/li>\n<li>Regular Exerciser<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And here\u2019s how each plan works:<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h-the-complete-couch-potato-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Complete_Couch_Potato_Plan\"\/><strong>The Complete Couch Potato Plan<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To get off the couch and into fitness and to lose weight, check out this handy chart <a href=\"http:\/\/blog.myfitnesspal.com\/the-30-day-walking-challenge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29362\">provided by MyFitnessPal<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/558868634990395336\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29363\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"100 pound weight loss success stories\" width=\"282\" height=\"1710\" class=\"\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Coach_Potato_Walking_Plan.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Coach_Potato_Walking_Plan.jpg\" alt=\"100 pound weight loss success stories\" width=\"282\" height=\"1710\" class=\"\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beginning with 2,000 steps on the first day, this plan has you gradually increase the steps you take daily over a period of 30 days until you\u2019re up to 10,000 steps daily. That translates to a distance of 4 to 5 miles.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If that sounds scary, remember that you can break it up into as many as four separate sessions.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Think of it this way\u2026<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A walk to the corner store and back is probably about 500 steps. Doing the shopping inside a grocery store is probably 500 steps too. If you go shopping on a busy day, from your parking space to the grocery store is probably another 500 steps. If you cut the lawn, there\u2019s another 500, which gives you your 2,000 without even really trying.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now let\u2019s go back to the calories burned data for a moment\u2026<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>Using 2,000 steps as an example<\/span>. That\u2019s roughly a mile. Assuming you walk at a natural 3 mph, you walked for a total of 20 minutes during those 2,000 steps. You just burned 180 calories, which means you burn 45 calories per 500 steps.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can already see how quickly the calorie burn will grow. If you were to pair that with just a few dietary \u201ccut outs,\u201d such as bread and soda, your weight loss and drive for fitness would both accelerate.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, it\u2019s always good to take a rest day every seven days and just \u201cdo what you do.\u201d Resting is part of the equation. Interestingly, you\u2019ll probably notice that you\u2019ll be taking more steps even on rest days. That happened to me, and it was really quite surprising.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One last thing\u2026<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thewalkingsite.com\/stretching.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29364\">stretch<\/a> before and after your walking workout.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h-the-regular-exerciser-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Regular_Exerciser_Plan\"\/>The Regular Exerciser Plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h3>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve been at the exercise thing for a while, even if all you\u2019ve done is complete the 30-day \u201cdon\u2019t-be-a-couch-potato-anymore\u201d plan, <strong>then you can begin to use 10,000 steps daily as your baseline<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once again, we have a handy guide courtesy of MyFitnessPal to get you started:<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/482025966344190157\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29365\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"formula for calories burned walking\" width=\"310\" height=\"1797\" class=\"\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/decent_exercise_plan.png\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/decent_exercise_plan.png\" alt=\"formula for calories burned walking\" width=\"310\" height=\"1797\" class=\"\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As with the lower step numbers, you can break it up so that you don\u2019t have to cover all five miles at once. That\u2019s important in our lives because we work, have families, and other interests that take up our time. As with anything else, having exercise become the sole focus of your life is a bad thing.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you require a little more structure to your walking, you can follow the Mayo Clinic\u2019s advice and use this <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/fitness\/in-depth\/walking\/art-20050972\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29366\">handy chart<\/a>, which tops out at 3,600 steps of brisk walking at 120 steps per minute. Although the chart is geared more for the couch potato beginner than for the regular exerciser, you can still use it to keep track of your daily sessions that add up to 10,000 steps.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s still essential to rest occasionally as part of your routine, so don\u2019t neglect resting once a week.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And if you&#8217;d like pick another type of workout plan, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/aaptiv-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29367\"><strong>the Aaptiv app can help with that as well<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-6-graduate-to-10-000-steps-over-your-baseline\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Graduate_to_10000_Steps_Over_Your_Baseline\"\/>6. Graduate to 10,000 Steps Over Your Baseline<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you progress upward in number of steps, your original baseline might seem like \u201ca walk to the front door\u201d because your body has gotten used to 10,000 steps daily.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To progress, try to shoot for the sum of your original baseline and 10,000 steps.\u00a0 This might require another 30 days.\u00a0 Or it could even take a few few months.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The point here?\u00a0 You want to consistently walk 10,000 steps more than your baseline metric on a daily basis.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That&#8217;s how you&#8217;ll lose an average of one pound per week with <span>just<\/span> walking!<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>EXAMPLE:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>2,000 steps is your baseline<\/li>\n<li>10,000 extra steps daily = 1 pound of weight loss<\/li>\n<li><span>You need to average 12,000 steps a day to lose one pound per week<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019d be amazed at how many steps you can rack up just by doing a few little things each day. There are so many things you can do that you can vary them every day and never get bored. Here are the top 20 ways to get extra steps on a daily basis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>1. <\/span>Whenever you have a meeting of some kind, <span>pace while you wait<\/span> for it to start. This also applies to doctor\u2019s appointments, waiting in line at the Department of Motor Vehicles, or even after school when picking up your kids. Even if all you do is pace for two- to three-minutes that adds up to 240 to 360 steps at 120 steps per minute.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>2.<\/span> When you go shopping and aren\u2019t in a hurry, <span>do a lap or two around the furthest aisles<\/span>. Or, if you prefer, just walk up and down every aisle again, which has the added benefit of letting you check for specials you may have missed the first time around.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>3.<\/span> At work, instead of using the closest restroom, <span>travel one floor up or one floor down<\/span>. Be sure to <span>u<\/span><span>se<\/span><span> the stairs<\/span> to do so.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>4.<\/span> <span>Get up to <\/span><span>change the channel on the <\/span><span>TV <\/span>or the CD in the player. Adjust your computer-run music player manually instead of using the remote. Walk around the house instead of relying on anything automated. Mark time while doing the dishes by hand instead of using the dishwasher. Be creative around the house.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>5.<\/span> If you\u2019re responsible for  driving the kids around to various activities, <span>take a walk or two around the block<\/span> while the activity is going on. You can still watch a baseball game while walking around the field, for example.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>6.<\/span> If you take mass transit to work, <span>get off a stop or two early<\/span>. If you\u2019re particularly brave, set out even earlier and walk all the way to work.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>7. Start doing yard work yourself<\/span> instead of hiring someone to do it. Walk around the house after completing each task instead of just going to the next job.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>8.<\/span> If all you need are a couple of items, <span>walk to the grocery store and back <\/span>instead of driving. Put this one together with idea #2 to get a double boost.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>9. Make walking a family outing after dinner.<\/span> Not only will this create quality bonding time with your family, but it\u2019ll also serve as an example to them of the benefits of walking.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>10.<\/span> Instead of sitting down to talk on the phone, <span>wander around the house<\/span>, especially up and down stairs.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>11. <\/span>Get your coworkers involved. The next time there\u2019s a meeting, take a walk outside in the nice weather and <span>have the meeting while walking<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>12. Avoid escalators and elevators<\/span> if doing so won\u2019t make you unduly late.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>13.<\/span> If you\u2019re stuck at a desk for work, set your computer\u2019s alarm to go off every two hours. <span>Get up each time it beeps and walk down the hall or around the office. <\/span>Chances are, you\u2019ll have to talk to someone on these trips anyway, so you\u2019ll not only increase your number of steps but also your productivity.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>14.<\/span> If you\u2019re in a relationship, go out for dinner and then<span> take a romantic walk afterward<\/span> to start burning off the calories.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>15.<\/span> <span>Get up early and walk to a scenic location to see sunrises or sunsets. <\/span>Combine this one with No. 14 and make it a picnic instead of going out for dinner.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>16.<\/span> If you go to church, invite a couple of people from the next pew to go for a <span>walk afterward instead of coffee hour<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>17.<\/span> If you like tag sales,<span> walk around the neighborhood instead of driving to find those deals. <\/span>Even if you can\u2019t carry what you find, if you pay for something, the person will likely hold it for you while you dash home for your vehicle.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>18. <\/span>If you\u2019re an animal lover, go to your local animal shelter and v<span>olunteer to walk dogs<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>19.<\/span> If you want to meet a friend for coffee,<span> walk to your favorite place<\/span>. Invite your friend to go walking with you.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span>20.<\/span> If you live near a mall, <span>get up early and go walk laps with the \u201cmall walkers club.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019m sure you can think up many of your own methods of boosting your steps. Even if you can\u2019t, walking with someone is always better. Maybe your friend can think up something creative that\u2019ll be a healthy way to get more steps!<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-8-harness-your-inner-competitor\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Harness_Your_Inner-Competitor\"\/>8. Harness Your Inner-Competitor<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While it may be fun pushing yourself, after a time it might get stale. When this happens, challenge a buddy to a \u201cwalk-off.\u201d See if you can \u201cout step\u201d your buddy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/fitbit-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29368\">Walking apps like the FitBit<\/a> allow you to add friends, develop new friendships, and compete with these friends. The app will track both your progress and the progress of your friends and juxtapose the results. The advantage to the app is that you can use it on your phone if you happen to forget your pedometer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FitBit also runs its own <a href=\"https:\/\/help.fitbit.com\/articles\/en_US\/Help_article\/1531\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29369\">challenges<\/a>, like:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Goal Day<\/li>\n<li>Weekend Warrior<\/li>\n<li>Daily Showdown<\/li>\n<li>Workweek Hustle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moreover, FitBit often runs special fitness day promotion where you can earn special badges by competing with your friends and getting more steps. My advice is to add all your friends (and anyone else you come across) in FitBit, then take part on the above challenges on a weekly basis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to learn more about how walking apps can help you, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/walking-apps\/\" data-lasso-id=\"29370\">check out our review of the best nine walking apps<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-9-add-intensity-to-your-walking-workout-program\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Add_Intensity_to_Your_Walking_Workout_Program\"\/>9. Add Intensity to Your Walking Workout Program<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Until now, aside from stairs, we\u2019ve only talked about walking on fairly level ground. Hills add a <a href=\"http:\/\/healthyliving.azcentral.com\/walking-incline-burn-calories-10029.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29371\">whole new set of possibilities<\/a> to your calorie burning during your walking workouts.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, take our old friend John from my earlier example\u2026<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he walks up a very slight 5-percent incline for 20 minutes, he\u2019ll burn 241 calories instead of 180.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If he walks up a much steeper hill, say a 14-percent incline, for the same 20 minutes, he\u2019ll burn nearly double that: 433 calories.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Of course, going downhill burns less.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you add hills to your regimen, however, it\u2019d be a good idea to add <em>both<\/em> uphill and downhill segments. Think of the downhill segments as a reward for fighting through those tough upward inclines.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, it\u2019s crucial that you add inclines to your walking regimen gradually. Doing too much too fast might result in injury, which would set you back, possibly for weeks. Use FitBit (or any pedometer that has a similar feature) to monitor your heart rate when increasing the incline at which you walk and report any irregularities to your doctor.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h-10-supercharge-your-walking-weight-loss-efforts-by-tweaking-your-diet\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Supercharge_Your_Walking_Weight_Loss_Efforts_by_Tweaking_Your_Diet\"\/>10. Supercharge Your Walking Weight Loss Efforts by Tweaking Your Diet<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"walking for weight loss quotes\" style=\"width:400px;height:400px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Walking-for-Weight-Loss-01.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/Walking-for-Weight-Loss-01.jpg\" alt=\"walking for weight loss quotes\" style=\"width:400px;height:400px\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No one likes to talk about this part. I know that I didn\u2019t, especially when I saw that I shouldn\u2019t have bread, pasta, alcohol, or red meat. I thought, \u201cBut those <em>are<\/em> my food groups!\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All kidding aside, a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.foodnavigator.com\/Science\/Everything-in-moderation-advice-is-unlikely-to-be-effective-Study\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29372\">new study<\/a> shows that we Americans are really terrible at \u201cmoderation.\u201d While \u201ceverything in moderation\u201d is a good strategy in theory, too many people still eat too much bad stuff and not enough good stuff on a regular basis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, people during this study were shown a plate of chocolate chip cookies. Fewer than one in 10 people selected the correct number of cookies that would be considered \u201cmoderate.\u201d It was the same with a plate of sweet candy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The researchers in the study also concluded that people who ate a greater diversity of foods actually got fatter than those people who just ate a few healthy choices all the time. What are the things that these researchers and others recommend cutting out of your diet?<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.fitday.com\/fitness-articles\/fitness\/weve-all-heard-the-following.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29373\">partial list<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Red meat<\/li>\n<li>Soda<\/li>\n<li>Trans fat<\/li>\n<li>Refined sugar<\/li>\n<li>Refined oil<\/li>\n<li>Refined grains<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To eat clean, people should limit themselves to mostly fruits and vegetables. If you must eat meat, limit it exclusively to fish or chicken. Bake or broil your fish or chicken: Never fry it.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you must eat bread, crackers, or other carb-heavy items, limit yourself to whole grains. Avoid fruit juices because they are very high in sugar. Always choose a food itself instead of a processed variant.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, eat olives instead of using olive oil or peanuts instead of peanut oil. Also, you should eat five or six small meals of roughly 200 calories each during the day.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A good rule of thumb regarding portion size is: <strong>If it won\u2019t fit in one hand, don\u2019t eat it.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another good strategy is to take what you think you want within the guidelines and put a little bit back. That way, you\u2019ll keep portion size under control and be right on track for weight loss.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Something else to consider is you should <a href=\"http:\/\/healthyeating.sfgate.com\/eating-smaller-meals-frequently-speed-up-metabolism-5680.html\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-lasso-id=\"29374\">eat at least something every two or three hours<\/a> even if you\u2019re not hungry. While this doesn\u2019t necessarily boost metabolism, it does go a long way toward satisfying your body\u2019s need for fuel and prevents those cravings for a giant burger and fries late in the day. You should also drink lots of water<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>\u200bSidenote: Also, one way you introduce healthier foods into your diet is to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/organifi-product\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"29375\"><strong>start each day with an Organifi green juice drink<\/strong><\/a>. \u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Basically, with a few exceptions, you\u2019ll have to get used to things that used to be called \u201can acquired taste.\u201d Eating should be to survive and not to enjoy. It\u2019s a hard truth, but what I learned was that looking good and feeling good tasted better than any food. It\u2019s much better to be bored at the dinner table than in life in general.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If 3,500 calories equals a pound, and you burn 900 or more calories a day walking 10,000 steps in two total hours, imagine how much you will lose in the long run if all you ate added up to only 1,200 calories a day.Now I know that no one is \u201cgood\u201d all the time. It\u2019s not in human nature. In fact, I have found that, despite what the study says, if I didn\u2019t splurge very occasionally, I would fail. By very occasionally, I mean less than once a month.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">My big weakness is pizza; I could eat a whole one at one sitting. Even though I\u2019m generally a good boy, I will go and get a couple of slices with everything on them that I shouldn\u2019t have every once in a great while. If you do splurge, don\u2019t punish yourself for doing so. After all, you\u2019re only human. Get back on track, though, by following the 10 steps in this tutorial as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Free_Download_Weight_Loss_Monthly_Tracker\"\/>Free Download: Weight Loss Monthly Tracker<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Weight Loss Monthly Tracker gives you a simple way to record your progress and stay motivated throughout your weight-loss journey. Use it to track your efforts, recognize your consistency, and see how your habits develop from month to month.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/drive\/folders\/1Dy-hyEMlvnViIjP4lZJuaTwFzl6fZB-_?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" title=\"\">Download your free tracker and start keeping track of your progress today.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">(The link opens up a Google Drive folder where you can get the PDF download in a variety of sizes: A4, A5, and US Letter.)<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"726\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"Weight Loss Monthly Tracker: 31 scales in a grid for daily weigh-ins, with starting and ending weight fields.\" class=\"wp-image-47701\" data-lazy-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-726x1024.png 726w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-213x300.png 213w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-768x1084.png 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker.png 808w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 726px) 100vw, 726px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-726x1024.png\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"726\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-726x1024.png\" alt=\"Weight Loss Monthly Tracker: 31 scales in a grid for daily weigh-ins, with starting and ending weight fields.\" class=\"wp-image-47701\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-726x1024.png 726w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-213x300.png 213w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker-768x1084.png 768w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/Weight-Loss-Monthly-Tracker.png 808w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 726px) 100vw, 726px\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"h-getting-started-with-your-walking-for-weight-loss-plan\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_Started_with_YOUR_Walking_for_Weight_Loss_Plan\"\/>Getting Started with YOUR Walking for Weight Loss Plan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"\/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Did you like this tutorial? Does it sound like something you can do?<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I know I was scared at first, but when I broke it down and considered each part separately, I found that it was much easier to do each of these things than I first thought. I wanted to get healthier and live longer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following these steps has helped me do that. My doctor was very pleased at my last physical examination. I know I was pleased! You should do all these things, too, if you want to live longer and be healthier and happier in the long run.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u200bNow, before we close things out, if you&#8217;d like \u201csupercharge\u201d your walking and weight loss plans, then I&#8217;d recommend two items that can help:<\/p>\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" data-lasso-id=\"29376\" href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/aaptiv-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u200bAaptiv audio-based fitness workout app<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><a data-lasso-id=\"29377\" href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/organifi-product\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u200b<strong>Organifi green juice superfood powder<\/strong><\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both can give you the motivation and energy to complete any type of workout that you&#8217;d like to complete.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re just beginning your weight loss journey, I recommend checking out these <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/smart-goals-weight-loss\/\" data-lasso-id=\"29378\">SMART goals examples for weight loss<\/a> to help you get started on the right foot. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n<p><strong>Finally, if you want to add a great HEALTH habit to your walking routine that increases your energy and helps with your weight goals, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/short-walking-organifi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">then take 30-seconds each morning to prepare this drink to feel energized throughout the day<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=\" http:=\"\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-47801\" style=\"width:368px;height:551px\" data-lazy-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound.jpg 735w\" data-lazy-sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" data-lazy-src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound-683x1024.jpg\"\/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-47801\" style=\"width:368px;height:551px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.developgoodhabits.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/walking-for-weight-loss-lose-1-pound.jpg 735w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\"\/><\/noscript><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/hop.clickbank.net\/?affiliate=infohatch&amp;vendor=J1R2C\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10614 aligncenter\" src=\"http:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png\" alt=\"Profit Gen\" width=\"400\" height=\"217\" srcset=\"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px.png 400w, https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/profit-gen400px-300x163.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/a><br \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What if losing weight could start with something as simple as putting one foot in front of the other? Walking is one of the easiest [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":10999,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13573","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-habits"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13573","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13573"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13573\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10999"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13573"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13573"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/parmaks.com\/Resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13573"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}