If you are currently carrying some extra weight or have trouble with your knees, ankles or hips, walking with a pedometer is a sure fire way to get back to a comfortable fitness level. Walking? You do it every day right? You walk when you’re running errands, tidying the house, or during regular work routines – but walking for fitness is just a little different and it can help you lose weight, increase muscle tone and live a longer life. You just need a way to measure your current daily steps and chart a path to success with a simple pedometer.

Don’t think that just because you want to get into shape you have to join an aerobics class or start an exercise routine that is difficult and could cause you more harm than help you. Yes, aerobic exercise can be enjoyable but it may be too much, too fast, for your system and joints if you’re already carrying a few extra pounds. Being fit has more to do with regularly exercising and reaping the benefits that make you feel good about yourself.

Just walking daily for 30 consecutive minutes will give you outstanding results in minimal time. Although sometimes we measure this in total steps for the day with a pedometer you can count on adding a few thousand extra steps to your day to reach your goals. This doesn’t need to be strenuous. Walking is a great way to rebuild muscle and tone your heart. Fitness experts will all agree that walking is the perfect exercise on the path to high health.

Fitness experts and gurus aside I think you’ll also find that walking is something that almost all doctors will recommend as well. You won’t have to spend money on expensive equipment, you can do it anywhere (even in the comfort of your own home) and the weather won’t even be able to affect or deter you from your commitment to fitness. Walking is also perfect for pre-conditioning your body for more intense aerobic exercise.

Begin with a pace that you are comfortable with but as brisk as possible so that you will burn unwanted fat while flushing out toxins through perspiration. If you cannot manage 30 minutes a day of brisk walking then start with three 10 minute walks per day. You’ll lose weight, increase your energy level, lower your blood pressure, increase your metabolism and strengthen your heart.

Once taking 30 minutes walks are no longer a challenge for you, look around for an aerobic exercise you might enjoy. Cycling is a fantastic next step and can also be performed in the solitude and safety of your own home, in any weather.

Whichever path you choose, always set a new goal as you near the last one. This keeps you motivated and you can celebrate as you move into the next level of fitness.