Getting sick of the cold? Is it making you want to hibernate instead of get those running shoes out? That’s why this week’s challenge is all about walking! The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-to vigorous-intensity activity per week in at bouts of at least 10 minutes at a time. The more the better.

Walking helps improve mood, lower blood pressure, maintain muscle tone and more. Research has even shown that regular, brisk walking can reduce the risk of heart attack by the same amount as more vigorous exercise, such as jogging.

These winter months can make it especially hard to get in your activity (especially when it’s minus twenty!) – here are some ways to get moving indoors:

-        Walk on the spot in front of the TV or follow this Walk at Home video (it’s amazing what you can do in such a small space)

-        Go mall walking (often malls open up before stores do so you can get a few laps in without the crowds)

-        Do 10 minutes worth of stair climbs at home – literally go up and down your stairs for 10 minutes, it’s a great workout!

-        Wear a pedometer to track your steps – aim for 10,000 steps a day

Here’s your Do it! Post it! Challenge this week:

Do it! Walk or do some other form of aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes this week. Remember, the best way to stick to an exercise program is to plan it into your busy day ahead of time.

Post it! Let us know how you did. What is your exercise of choice? What keeps you motivated to keep up your exercise routine?

-        A & M