In the Tampa Bay area, April delivers to residents and visitors alike, amazing days filled with near-perfect weather conditions. We are lucky to have average temperatures ranging from 64 to 82 degrees, just over 2 inches of rainfall, and almost 13 hours of daylight. Such a gift from mother nature should NOT be ignored. Walking is free, offers numerous health benefits, and April is the perfect time to start a new health routine that involves walking. Luckily, we have plenty of trails, beaches, nature parks, and neighborhoods that are perfect for walking. Check out the benefits and tips below and take that first step towards better health by increasing your physical activity.
❤️ BENEFITS
- Helps maintain a healthy weight and lose body fat
- Increase energy levels
- Enhance your energy level, mood, cognition, memory, and sleep
- Ease joint pain by strengthening bones and muscles
- Bolster your balance and coordination
- Boost immune system function
- Improve blood pressure and heart health
- Lower the risk of several cancers
❤️ PROPER TECHNIQUE
- Posture – straight and tall and relaxed
- Arms – bent at a 90-degree angle and swing arms freely
- Head – held straight, chin parallel with the ground, and eyes looking forward
- Core – gently tighten stomach muscles
- Legs/Feet – step forward at a natural distance, and feet should roll from heel to toe
❤️ WALKING SAFELY
- Dress appropriately – proper shoes, loose, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and rain gear, if necessary
- Choose a safe, well-lit course. If walking during early or late hours, wear reflective clothing
- When available, walk on the sidewalk. If unavailable, walk facing traffic, as far from vehicles as possible, and cross at crosswalks or intersections
- Be sure to warm up before your walk and cool down and stretch after
- Hydrate before, during, and after your walk
- Start slow and know your limits
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