Have you ever been motivated to do something great because someone around you asked you to join them?
This week, Springer and I had a phenomenal opportunity to connect with over 70 members of the
Genentech IT team as they embark on a department-wide challenge to “walk around the world.” In early September they were given a Fitbit, a smarter-than-smart device the size of a stick of gum that tracks the number of steps you take and your sleep patterns as a tool to help people “lead healthier, more active lives.”
Determined to make this team-challenge effective AND fun, we were asked to lead a Walking Clinic and a 30-minute Power Walk to take their goals to a whole, new level. We shared tips and tricks to move with pupose, burn loads of calories, tone muscles, and enjoy the outdoors.
- Arms are bent at a 90-degree angle, fists meet eye-level, and your elbows drive back while you squeeze your triceps.
- Your abdominals are tucked-in towards your spine, driving your shoulders back, and opening your chest for a tall posture and open lungs.
- Your legs extend in front of the body, landing with your heal (then toe) in swift, quick steps.
- And lastly, your glutes are squeezed as you step and propel forward – keeping everything nice and tight.
Does it really work to “get fit”?
After asking the the team a few questions, we learned that over 90% of them sit for 7-8 hours a day. If this sounds familiar, do you really think that incorporating 30-60 minutes of determined walking with purpose will not make a difference? You bet it will make a difference!
The proof is in the pudding, but you have to stick with it. By keeping your body moving at a moderate pace, contracting multiple muscle groups, breathing fresh air, and enjoying the people around you, your cortisone (or stress) levels can easily come down. When your stress levels decrease, your body is more likely to release stored fat and you will feel lighter, brighter, and more energized.
How can you make it more challenging?
If you’ve mastered power walking, you can easily take it to a whole, new level. We shared that “being fit” doesn’t have to include a huge production of weight machines and a drive to the gym. You can use your body, things around the house, and your environment to create resistance.
Take your power walking sessions to a new level by carrying weights, a 5lb. bag of flour, a gallon of water, or even a back pack.
I brought a gallon of water from my earthquake kit as added resistance. An inspirational gentleman named David carried it the whole-way. He was inspired to walk again after having a lull in his routine. Last spring he lost 30+ pounds simply by walking and changing his nutrition. Amazing!
When’s the best time to Power Walk?
Walking is free and can happen anywhere – so don’t limit yourself to an “ideal” time of the day. As for meal-timing and walk-timing, it’s best NOT to walk right after eating. You want to burn what is stored, not what you just ate.
Try walking in the morning upon waking, before lunch, or before dinner. Follow-it with a light meal to replenish your fuel.
Moving you, inspires us
Springer and I truly had a blast this week – walking with amazing, driven people who have busy lives, families, and careers they love. 30-minutes before the workshop, we walked the course together and it started POURING. We were soaked, laughed more than ever, and shared so much appreciation that we were finally living our dream – helping other people gain a little bit of themselves back.
We didn’t leave our full-time corporate jobs and head back to school to start a business for anything less than helping you ALL regain your health, power, and ultimately your lives.
Thank you for moving us!
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