Essential Walking Equipment List

Walking is the oldest mode of transportation — after all, humans have been doing it for more than 1.5 million years. It’s also the cheapest, easiest form of aerobic exercise. All you have to do is open your front door, step outside and get moving.

Walking Shoes

Good sneakers are essential for preventing shin splints, ankle sprains and other injuries, because they cushion, absorb shock and provide added structure to the entire foot. Shin splints are a painful tendon inflammation that results from improper conditioning or walking on a very hard surface.

Footwear designed specifically for walking is best, but any running shoe or cross-trainer will do. You don’t need to spend more than $80 to get a quality sneaker. If you’re using your sneakers more than four times a week, you should replace your exercise footwear about every six months because you’ll gradually wear down the interior support.

Other Equipment

Heart rate monitor – This is an excellent idea for walkers because it takes the guessing out of how fast or slow you should go. Remember that unless you get your heart rate up, you won’t burn a significant amount of calories.

Pedometer – This monitor keeps track of the miles you’ve walked.