A big advocate of jogging as the ultimate form of exercise, I always thought walking was for those who just didn’t have the stamina for jogging. I was wrong. Walking can give your body just as much or more of a workout as jogging. And it also has the same wonderful health benefits - lowering blood pressure, stabilizing blood sugar, flattening abdomen while strengthening leg muscles, bones, and immune system - but is easier on your joints.

Racewalking can be done by anyone at any age. The only requirement is that you are able to put one foot in front of the other. No need to race or go really fast. As long as you have the technique down, both your upper and lower body will be exercised.

Some comfortable clothes, good tennis shoes, and a strong desire to get in better shape are all that you need.

Did you know that there is more than one way to walk? Pleasure walkers just walk for the pure pleasure of it. No worry about going fast, they just want to enjoy themselves. Nothing wrong with that. Even a little bit of walking is some exercise.

There are many different ways to walk for exercise. Some people hike over rough and unsteady terrain. Others powerwalk or speedwalk without any rules as to form or technique. Some combine walking and jogging. Others compete in marathons and walk really long distances. Some walk to raise money for certain causes.

Walking is not the lazy way to exercise. Race walkers have been know to pass runners. Jefferson Perez, a gold-medalist in race walking, can cover a mile in just over 6 minutes. That is impressive. But you don’t have to race in order to racewalk.

Racewalking is a form of walking that has been around for centuries. In 17th century England, it was referred to as the “fair heel and toe” technique. That is an appropriate way to describe racewalking, as the heel always hits the ground first.

What is the technique for walking this fast? Stand straight, keep your eyes looking straight ahead, and relax your shoulders. Allow your hips to sway gently as you move. The heel of the leg brought forward should make first contact with the ground. Your foot should be allowed to gently roll forward until the toes are on the ground. All this time the knee of this leg should be kept straight. Do not allow the knee to bend until you are ready to bring the opposing leg forward and touch its heel to the ground.

The leg of the heel that touches the ground should always be kept straight. This is easy on a straight stretch, a bit more difficult when you encounter hills, especially steep ones. Remember, this should be fun, so don't be too hard on yourself if hills prove to be a challenge.

Even if you feel you are able to take off really fast it is important to start slow so that you avoid injury. Starting slow will make it easier to master the technique. Once you have it mastered, you can allow your speed to increase. Though it would probably take a lot of work to equal the speed of Jefferson Perez (see him in action at eracewalk.com).

While you are walking, take the time to look around and enjoy yourself. Exercise should be fun. When you enjoy what you are doing, chances are it will become an anticipated part of your daily life.