Walking

I went on holiday in August and realized how little walking I did in my daily life. Even though I was doing strength training, I didn't have enough balance in cardio exercises. 

I remember being so exhausted from all the walking that I decided to make changes when I returned home.

I think it was also a bit of a God moment, no better way to show me I wasn't doing enough than actually showing me. 

When I returned home, I decided to try walking every day, even if it was just to go to the store. Then I grew into going to the park for my walks, and then I joined a park run in my neighbourhood to do some walking. But I found that going out at 9am on a Saturday was not really for me. So I did the park run trail on weekdays when it was convenient for me. I walked the most in September about 61km.

I have begun to cut back on walking and do it closer to home because it's more convenient and I don't have to think of the need to go to the park. I just do laps around the neighbourhood. Cutting back on walking gives me the chance to do more vigorous cardio and strength training in my day.

I always thought I hated walking because I always compared it to bike riding which I miss a lot. However, I realize walking helps me slow down and collect my thoughts after a day's work. Even though, I usually listen to a Danish podcast during my walks, my mind still has the chance to slow down. And the winter breeze and rain feel amazing against my face. I walk when the weather is clear and when it's raining. There is a Danish saying that there is no such thing as bad weather just bad clothes, so I bought a raincoat and my shoes are waterproof. I only need waterproof pants to match.

Although there were days when I didn't feel like it, I usually convinced myself to do one lap instead of three. Most of the time after that first lap I realise it's nice to be outside, and then it's no longer difficult to convince myself to do one more. 

In the beginning, I walked for fitness, but now I walk because I love to. I'm really happy I took up walking, it's helped my mind on tough days. I'm looking forward to meeting my walking goals in 2025.