Getting Fit with a Walking Stick
Walking sticks aren’t only for senior citizens anymore—they are becoming an integral part of active walkers’ daily routines. In fact, it has been proven that using a walking stick helps burn calories at a faster rate and helps motivate hikers and walkers to push themselves to the next level. Not only do walking sticks help active walkers stay balanced, they also relieve stress, tension and help mix up a workout routine that may have gotten too boring.
Walking sticks help in a physical walking routine because they take stress off the body and act as a third “leg.” By transferring some of your body weight onto the stick you take stress off your back and ankles, making it possible to walk for longer and greater distances. Walking sticks are also great props to help hikers get up steep inclines and hills and are great for balance and coordination. They can also be used as a light weight, making a simple walk around the neighborhood more effective and challenging if you lift it over your head or pass it from hand to hand like a baton.
If you are interested in getting fit using a walking stick, check online or at your local sporting goods store to find the right stick for you. Prices range from under $10 to over $100 but you don’t need a super fancy stick to get a more effective work out. It’s how you utilize the stick and incorporate it into your daily routine that will drastically change your results. Ask a sales associate for recommendations and tips – they are usually very helpful and will help steer you in the right direction when it comes to the right choice for your body type. Ask questions and make sure the stick fits your physical build and will be able to support your weight.
For even more motivation, get a group of friends or coworkers together to go hiking or walking with you. Hiking doesn’t have to be an all-day event—turn your local park into your own fitness wonderland. Don’t forget a water bottle and make sure everyone is a safe distance from each other so you don’t accidentally hit someone with your stick or trip them going up hill. Exercising in groups has been proven to be extra motivating as well, so the combination of friends and your walking stick will help whip you into shape in no time at all!
Related Information
