Walking is nothing more than putting one foot in front of the other. Who knew something so simple could be so good for you?

Walking is one of the best fitness activities there is. It's easy, it can help you lose weight, it's good for your heart, and the risk of injury is virtually nil.

Walking is an especially good choice for people who are out of shape and dread going to a gym full of hard bodies. You could start by setting a short-term goal of walking five minutes once or twice daily, say to the corner store or mailbox. Though this is a simple goal, achieving it will provide a feeling of satisfaction and motivate you. From there you can set longer-term goals, such as walking two or three times a day for 20 minutes a session. Of course, it’s important to get cleared by your doctor before starting an exercise routine, especially if you’ve been inactive for a while.

Many recovering couch potatoes have gotten back into the swing of things by starting with a simple amble down the block. Walking also benefits advanced exercisers. For example, experts recommend five to 10 minutes of warm-up activity such as low-intensity walking before an exercise routine, ending with five to 10 minutes of similar activity as a cool-down. When you make walking the cardio part of your workout, a bonus comes during vacations and business trips – who needs an expensive taxi when you can promenade through Central Park or along the Champs-Elysees?

• Walking is inexpensive and low tech -- all you really need is a sturdy pair of walking shoes and you're good to go.
  
  
• You can adjust your pace, technique and the terrain to accommodate your fitness level.
  
  
• It’s a great way for inactive people to start getting in shape again, and it has many health benefits for advanced exercisers as well.
  
  
• Walking is a pleasure when the weather is nice, but you can also walk in the worst weather if you have access to a treadmill or a shopping mall, airport terminal or other large building.
  
  
• Walking is not only good for you, it’s also good for the environment. Instead of getting behind the wheel, you can get fit while running errands.

• Some people find walking a bore.
  
  
• It may take you longer to lose weight on a walking program than it would with some other forms of exercise, especially if you don't pick up the pace at least some of the time.
  
  
• To have a complete workout, you must also incorporate strengthening and stretching activities.