Do you want a simple, cheap way to get in shape and feel good? Start walking.

WWL-TV

Fitness and Nutrition Expert Mackie Shilstone - FILE PHOTO

Walking is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It gets nearly all of the muscles in your body working, no matter at what pace you choose to walk. It also boosts your circulatory and respiratory systems.

Your aerobic power, which is basically your body's ability to take in the maximum amount of oxygen, declines as you age.

So, over time, you may not have the same energy you had when you were younger. However, recent research shows that regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, can boost your aerobic fitness so much that it's like being younger!

Don't think you have the time to walk?

Just take a short walk in the morning and another at lunch or after work.

Physical activity can be accumulated over the course of a day rather than all in one session, and it doesn't have to result in weight loss to have health benefits.

But it can help you lose weight as well, if you walk regularly, especially if you pick up the pace.

Find a pace at which you’re comfortable and maintain it, or vary the terrain if you live in a hilly area or near a beach.

However you choose to walk, it will be good for you.