As summer ends and fall begins, the weather is cooling down, and it is becoming more pleasant to spend time outdoors. What better way to enjoy the comfortable temperature and foliage than a brisk walk?

For the last few months, I have been consistently going on walks, usually around four miles, or an hour and 20 minutes. I am lucky enough to have a loop near my house that is almost exactly four miles and that I have taken advantage of for my next edition of Trying New Things.

What is it?

Going on a walk is exactly as it sounds, from 15 minutes to hours, a walk is a great, often overlooked, form of exercise. It’s free, solo or social, and can be done almost anytime, anywhere. Oftentimes, I burn just as many calories after walking as I do other forms of exercise, while it remains low impact and non-exhausting. Unlike other exercises that tire people out, walking can make people feel even more energized. It’s a great activity to incorporate before, after or even on breaks during the working day.

Beginner friendly?

I think going on a walk is a bit deceiving as a beginner activity. A 15-20 minute walk is a great place to start and build some endurance while not having to spend hours working out. Progressing to longer walks takes time but is very feasible with consistency and can actually become quite challenging.

When I first began walking, I would wake up sore, specifically in my lower back. It’s a bit jarring to think you went on a leisurely walk the day before only to be in pain the next day. That soreness shows the impact of the activity and that walking is in fact a workout in itself. I once tried to walk more than my normal four-mile loop and found myself hungry, tired and thirsty as I continued past the distance to which I was accustomed. Walking more means more preparation and a far more difficult activity than I anticipated.

Insight & Impression

I like to walk. One of my favorite things is to go on a walk and talk to my friends, ideally on a pretty path or in a neighborhood with nice houses. That does not go for everyone; every time I ask my brother to go on a walk with me, he immediately declines. He would much rather run or lift than go on a walk. My dad likes to walk with me, but he is more sore after walking than other more strenuous activities. I am not a runner by nature nor do I enjoy running, so walking is a great alternative.

Did I feel like I was working out?

I think the best part of walking is that I do not feel like I’m working out while walking, especially if I pair it with a great conversation, coffee or podcast. The time flies, and it’s something I genuinely look forward to. As I mentioned, it’s not for everyone. My brother and dad, as athletic as they are, find walking difficult and prefer other forms of exercise.

If you’ve been keeping up with “Trying New Things” and have found that the other activities are inaccessible to you, walking may be the holy grail. It’s free and can be done whenever you want. Regardless, I’ll keep trying new activities so you don’t have to. Next month, we’re going to change directions and try something much more team oriented.