First Steps

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” –MLK Jr.

My current schedule has me training with heavy weights on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and running sprints on Thursdays and Sundays.

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, I walk. I don’t have a set distance or time.  I just go.  For me, these strolls are about consistency, not the workout.  I like the mental strength that stems from doing something physical on a daily basis.

My walk has no rules. I’ll talk on the phone, text, tweet, maybe bring my dog or my young men. Sometimes I’ll just breathe.

When I return home, I feel better than when I left; the ability of exercise to boost mood is undisputed. Studies have repeatedly shown that moderate intensity exercise (like a brisk walk) can be effective as a prescription antidepressant in many cases. The endorphins we release while walking reduce stress and anxiety.

Don’t underestimate the cumulative power in a consistent walking routine.  No need to overthink it or plan it out, just go.