Jon Stanton

Too many people I know think that in order to lose weight, you have to exercise yourself to oblivion, or join a gym and hire a personal trainer. While there's nothing necessarily wrong if you choose to go that route, it's definitely not required.

Simply put, I've walked off 230 pounds. Now before you start cursing or trying to throw Internet darts at me, let me tell you why I believe walking is one of the best ways to lose weight and stay fit.

Walking is a "weight bearing" activity. That means that the heavier you are, the more calories you will burn. It makes sense if you think about it. It takes a lot more energy to move 400 pounds than it does 200 pounds. Not all forms of exercise are like that - it's a bonus for people who are overweight when they start a walking program.

Walking is free. Yep, last time I checked, not even the government had started to tax walking yet. :-) Seriously, you can walk just about anytime, anywhere without it costing a cent, except for the shoes on your feet. BTW, if you are planning to start walking consistently, I would suggest investing in a good pair of walking shoes.

Walking has benefits far beyond weight loss. Did you know that just 20 minutes of brisk walking every day can greatly reduce your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and a host of other ailments? Isn't your health worth 20 minutes per day?

Walking is fun. Yes, I would be lying if I didn't admit that it was kind of difficult to view walking as "fun" when I weighed 430 pounds. However, I quickly fell in love with it. It's a great chance to just let go of all of life's craziness for a window of time. I tend to "walk off my stress" - each step is a way of releasing tension. I also do some of my best "thinking" while I walk. Regardless of what I do while I walk, I always return refreshed and feeling much better because...

Walking releases endorphins. Endorphins are "feel good" hormones that give us energy and a positive attitude. I've lost count of how many times I've been tired and grumpy, headed out for a walk, and returned on cloud nine. It's just another of those wonderful benefits that can be yours if you start walking today!

Note: Be sure to check with your physician before starting any exercise program, including walking.