| Following are tips for initiating a walking program | | | | overly tired, if you feel pain, or if you experience |
| for exercise: | | | | shortness of breath. If you experience any of the |
| See a doctor - Before initiating an exercise | | | | following, see a doctor immediately. |
| program, talk to your doctor and get a full | | | | Time your program with your meals - Don't walk |
| physical. The doctor will suggest an exercise | | | | directly after or before a meal. It is optimal to |
| program that is right for you. | | | | walk 2 hours after a meal and wait 20 minutes |
| Stay hydrated - Especially on a hot or humid day, | | | | after your walk before eating a meal. |
| it is important to stay hydrated. Drink water | | | | Seek alternative walking areas in extreme |
| before, during and after your walk. | | | | weather - It is not a good idea to walk in |
| Eat well - Eat three well-balanced, | | | | extremely cold weather, or brutally hot or humid |
| moderately-sized meals per day. Avoid junk food | | | | weather. In adverse conditions, find an indoor |
| and products with high fat and cholesterol. | | | | track to walk around or head to the mall to do |
| Choose a smooth walking surface - A smooth | | | | some laps. Also, avoid walking on ice or during a |
| surface will result in less fatigue and fewer injuries. | | | | lightening storm. If you find yourself caught in a |
| Monitor your pace - You are walking at a good | | | | lightning storm, head for cover (but not under a |
| pace if you are able to hold a conversation with | | | | tree since lightening tends to hit the tallest objects |
| someone. | | | | in an area). |
| Cease walking when there is pain - Don't continue | | | | Follow these tips for initiating a walking program |
| if you are experiencing chest pain, if you are | | | | and reap the benefits of your exercise program! |