14 products that will supercharge your next walk, according to a personal trainer
It’s one of the most gentle, yet beneficial forms of exercise - so how can you elevate your daily walk?
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As well as being a pleasant and gentle form of exercise, walking brings with it a host of health benefits.
From boosting immune function and easing joint pain to helping to tame cravings, getting your daily steps count up is only good news for your wellbeing.
“Walking is one of the best and healthiest things you can do for your body,” Ben Lucas, Director of Flow Athletic, tells news.com.au.
And there are plenty of products that will make your body work harder to make sure you get the most out of your next walking session.
ANKLE AND WRIST WEIGHTS
Give your muscles an extra workout by donning ankle or wrist weights while you walk.
Sportneer Ankle Weights Adjustable 1-7 lbs Wrist Weight Straps, Amazon, $39.99
This pair of ankle weight straps with added weights will elevate your next walk and push you harder. There are five individual bags of weight - each weighing 0.6 lbs - so you can start off gently and gradually increase the load as you feel your fitness improving. Far from fiddly, the straps are one-size-fits-all and are super easy to adjust thanks to their velcro fastening that feels secure on your wrists and ankles. Plus, the neoprene exterior provides support and comfort as you stride along on your next walk.
Sportitude Adjustable Ankle Wrist Weight Straps 10 Kilograms, $52.95
Not only great for enhancing your next walk, these ankle and wrist weight straps can be used during HIIT or Pilates workouts too.
These straps feature two five kilogram straps in one kilogram increments so you can gradually increase your resistance.
Ankle Wrist Weights Straps 1 to 6 kilograms, $12.50 (Plus $5.99 postage)
Available in one, two, three, four, five and six kilogram weights, these ankle and wrist weight straps are a great accessory.
Created from heavy duty nylon and oxford cloth fabric, you can ensure these will be comfortable to wear.
Big W Circuit Ankle Wrist Weights 1 Kilogram 2 Pack, $10
These simple one kilogram ankle and wrist weight straps are perfect for beginners.
Their hook and loop fastening makes it easy to attach and it can be used in whatever workout you please.
WALKING SHOES
A good pair of walking shoes that are comfortable and supportive will be the difference between you achieving that extra kilometre or heading home.
FOR WOMEN
Brooks Addiction Walking Shoes In White, $239.99
A walking shoe built for whatever terrain you fancy, this Brooks pair is chic enough to wear anywhere.
They feature plenty of support and cushioning with a leather upper so you can walk the day away in comfort.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V3, $130
The pinnacle of comfort, these shoes feature a lightweight, cored rubber outsole for ample flexibility.
Fresh Foam midsole cushioning provides the comfort needed for all your walking requirements.
FOR MEN
This incredibly popular shoe is now in its 24th edition and it’s partly thanks to its cushioned heel wedge providing plenty of comfort and support.
Plus, its air mesh upper layer means you’ll get plenty of ventilation while strolling.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37, $180
Yes, there’s more to these vivid green shoes than just a stylish appearance.
Perfect for running and walking, this pair features Nike React Foam at the midsole to provide comfort and a spring in your step. Plus, this pair is lightweight and durable.
FITNESS TRACKERS AND TECHNOLOGY
A fitness tracker is going to both ignite your competitive spirit and inform you of how hard you’re really working.
Xiaomi Mi Band 5 (Global Version) Fitness Tracker, Amazon, $53.95
A truly affordable fitness tracker, the Xiaomi Mi Band 5 (Global Version) Fitness Tracker is the perfect accompaniment on your next walking escapade. It features a battery than can last for 14 days (yes, that’s two weeks) and can support 11 different sport modes including walking, swimming, skipping and yoga. To help you keep track of your progress, this fitness tracker reminds you of your speed, how many kilometres you’ve walked, your heart rate and it can even monitor your sleep. Plus, you can use it to listen to your music, check the weather or set an alarm, too.
Build healthy habits into your life with the assistance of this fitness tracker.
Check your daily step count, the distances you cover, calories burned and monitor your sleep patterns too.
Apple AirPods With Wireless Charging Case, $319
Make fussy headphone cords a thing of the past with Apple’s wireless AirPods.
They’re incredibly easy to connect and allow you to listen to your favourite music and pdcasts and also answer calls.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 Bluetooth in Gold Rose, $549
This truly chic Samsung option is perfect for anyone who’s looking for a smart watch that doubles as a fashion accessory.
Track all your movements across seven different exercises. Plus, the running coach function offers you advice in real time.
When they’ve been tuned by acoustic specialists AKG, you know the sound on these Galaxy Buds will deliver.
Adaptive dual microphone technology means you can answer calls minus any chaotic background noise.
JBL Tune 220TWS True Wireless Earbuds, $179
If you like your bass full-bodied, these wireless earbuds are for you.
Featuring bluetooth connectivity, on-ear controls and voice assistant support, they’re a no-fuss walking buddy.
Why is walking so good for our health?
“It is a great way to get your heart rate up … great for keeping your weight down and for helping you tone up,” Ben says. “It is also good for your mental health, especially if you are walking near trees or water.”
If you’re looking to elevate your current walk to push yourself that little bit further, Ben says you can start by “walking briskly, as opposed to strolling”.
Why are wrist or ankle weights a great addition to a walk?
“Resistance training is very important for your bone density, especially for later in life when the risk of brittle bones (osteoporosis) becomes more probable,” says Ben. “Light arm weights and ankle weights can be a good option - they can help to get your heart rate up higher and are great for toning - just make sure you keep good posture when using them.”
What shoes should you be wearing?
“Shoes are so important, but it really is an individual thing as everyone is built differently,” says Ben. “Our feet may have higher or lower arches. Some ankles are less stable than others, that’s why everyone should be professionally fitted for shoes, especially if you walk or run a lot as safety is more important than the look. Don’t go for something just because it is popular.”
Is a fitness tracker a worthy investment?
“They are so good for seeing how far you went and at what pace,” says Ben. Plus, using wireless headphones is another a great way to stride along while being entertained. “For long walks I love to listen to a good podcast or music that is around 180 beats per minute to help me keep my pace up,” recommends Ben.
If you want to know more about fitness trackers, here are seven options that might suit you.
And you are ready to step up your exercise routine, check out our tips picking the best running shoes.
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