Wednesday Workouts: Walk/Run

Thank you for joining me for Wednesday Workouts where every Wednesday I share with you a simple way that I chose to stay active. Today I returned to my favorite spot, Crestwood Park for some interval training. 

What is interval training? Interval Training is a sinch! It is defined by Mayo Clinic as "simply alternating bursts of intense activity with intervals of lighter activity." Go hard, go light, go hard, go light. I chose to follow the advice of an awesome running coach Danny Harrelson of Run University and do 4 minutes of jogging followed by 1 minute of walking for 1 mile. And with this scenery how could I say no to a quick workout?

Activity can be very enjoyable when you do it with friends, but that just can't always happen. When I do jog or walk alone I like to choose a spot that has nice scenery. I look for a peaceful place where I can concentrate and pay attention to how my body is feeling, what my breath is doing, and focus my mind on the challenge ahead. I encourage you to find a spot where you feel safe, energized, and are able to enjoy your workouts. Like I said, I have definitely found my favorite spot. 

Run/Walk style interval training is great for beginners and seasoned runners. You are able to keep track of exactly what you're doing and focus on your times. Mayo Clinic gives several great reasons for incorporating interval training into your exercise routine. 

"Consider the benefits:

• You'll burn more calories. The more vigorously you exercise, the more calories you'll burn — even if you increase intensity for just a few minutes at a time.
• You'll improve your aerobic capacity. As your cardiovascular fitness improves, you'll be able to exercise longer or with more intensity. Imagine finishing your 60-minute walk in 45 minutes — or the additional calories you'll burn by keeping up the pace for the full 60 minutes.
• You'll keep boredom at bay. Turning up your intensity in short intervals can add variety to your exercise routine.
• You don't need special equipment. You can simply modify your current routine."

Everyone wants to get the biggest calorie burn they can. Everyone wants to have a better aerobic capacity to have more stamina. Everyone enjoys bringing in a new twist to liven up your workout. Everyone enjoys not having to depend on equipment for each and every workout (don't get me wrong, I am all about the right workout equipment, but it's nice to have an option for say travel or beautiful days like today). 

My conclusion Everyone will enjoy and benefit from interval training! You will be amazed at the capacity your body has to keep going when you allow it planned breaks and focus your mind. Don't forget to stretch before and after and enjoy your Wednesday Workouts! Please comment to let me know how you chose to stay active today!