Walking is a great way to lose weight.  You don’t need any specific knowledge, or any equipment.  You already have everything you need. You can start walking to lose weight today.

I’m sure you already have comfortable shoes.  You don’t have to go and get special walking shoes, unless you want to, of course.  Some people like to listen to music or books while they walk, so you might need a CD player, iPod, MP3 player, or something similar.

If you haven’t done any walking for a while, well, other than the normal day to day stuff, start small.  Don’t go too far from home at first, don’t take the long trails at the park just yet, etc.  Go out and walk around the block.  Don’t try to run yet, walk at a comfortable pace.  Find your limitations first.

After you are comfortable, and walking is easier, you can take longer walks around the neighborhood. Go to a park, take the long trail you have been wanting to see.  Make sure you increase your speed while you are increasing distance.  Even better go to a national park and take the scenic route.  Never go farther than you are comfortable with.  Yes, push yourself, but if you can’t get back to your home or car, then you’ve gone too far. You want to be walking to lose weight, not beat yourself silly.

If you don’t enjoy walking, there are some things you can do to take your mind off the fact that you are actually walking.  Different people find different things enjoyable while walking.  Some like to just look at nature, these people should walk in parks, or anywhere outdoors.  Some people enjoy people watching, go to the mall and walk, walk around neighborhoods.  Some people need more stimulation while walking.  Listen to music, make sure it is upbeat so you don’t walk too slow.  Listen to books on tape/CD.  Fiction, non-fiction, self-help books, everything is available in sound now. Start walking with a friend or group of friends.

So the bottom line is, find what works for you.  Start slow, gradually increase your speed and distance over time.  Keep yourself occupied so you don’t even realize you are walking to lose weight. Before you know it you will be dropping pounds and losing inches.