What's Happening?
Solomon Lewis, a NASM-certified personal trainer, advocates for warming up before walking workouts to promote proper movement mechanics and prevent injuries. Despite walking being a low-intensity exercise, Lewis highlights the benefits of warming up to prepare the body and mind for physical activity. He suggests three warm-up exercises: bodyweight squats, split squats, and lateral toe touches. Lewis also provides a 30-minute walking workout plan, emphasizing gradual intensity increases to improve cardiovascular fitness and aid weight loss.
Why It's Important?
Warming up before exercise is crucial for injury prevention and optimal performance, even for low-intensity activities like walking. Lewis's recommendations are particularly valuable for individuals who may be deconditioned or new to regular exercise. By incorporating warm-up routines, individuals can enhance their workout effectiveness and reduce the risk of strains or injuries. This approach supports a sustainable exercise habit, contributing to long-term health benefits such as improved cardiovascular health, weight management, and bone strength.