Walking and Running Fight Obesity

Walking and running are two good weapons in the fight against the growing obesity problem.

On my early morning run, I greeted a neighbor who was walking to work. After finishing, I sat down to read the morning paper and noticed an article about increasing obesity rates. Obesity rates are increasing across the United States and have even topped 30% in one state. The article I read specifically cited more walking as one way to combat obesity.

Both my neighbor and I were using two of the best weapons in the arsenal against obesity: walking and running. Both are excellent aerobic exercises that improve cardiovascular health and burn calories. Regular walking, running, or other cardiovascular exercise helps control weight. A reasonable diet that avoids overeating is also key.

The regular exercise provided by a daily program of walking or running, will help you burn enough calories to maintain a healthy weight without feeling like you are starving yourself. Scientific studies show that people who successfully lose weight and keep it off exercise regularly - usually by walking.

The exercise program doesn't have to be complicated. Walking to work is an easy way to get five days a week of good exercise. Walking or running around your neighborhood will also give you the needed workout. Neither requires any special equipment or athletic skill.

Put on a good comfortable pair of shoes and start putting one foot in front of the other. If you want to keep track, wear a watch or pedometer, but you don't have to keep track. Just move your feet.