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If you’re looking for a simple way to improve your fitness without diving into complicated routines, walking might be your answer. It’s an easy, accessible form of exercise that doesn’t require any fancy equipment. But what if you want to track your progress, set goals, or keep yourself motivated? That’s where a walking for fitness app can come in handy.
Using an app to monitor your walks gives you helpful insights into your distance, speed, and calories burned. Plus, many apps offer guided walking plans to keep you on track, making your walks more effective. Whether you’re new to walking or want to take your routine to the next level, there’s an app that fits your needs.
In this article, we’ll break down some of the most common questions about walking apps and give you recommendations for the best options.
What Is the Best App for Walking?
With so many apps available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Here’s a list of popular walking apps that provide different features depending on your goals:
1. MapMyWalk by Under Armour
MapMyWalk is one of the most well-known walking apps. It tracks your route, distance, and calories burned, making it great for those who like to see their progress visually. The app also syncs with fitness devices and other apps, so all your data stays connected in one place.
- Why it’s great: It’s perfect if you want to map out your walks and track your fitness stats.
- Bonus: It includes social features, so you can share your progress and join challenges.
2. Pacer Pedometer & Step Tracker
Pacer is straightforward and user-friendly, tracking your steps, distance, and calories. It also offers walking plans to help you gradually build up your stamina, making it a good choice for beginners.
- Why it’s great: It’s easy to use and doesn’t have too many bells and whistles.
- Bonus: You can set personal goals, whether that’s steps per day or walking a certain distance.
3. Strava
Although Strava is often associated with running and cycling, it works equally well for walking. It’s known for its social features, which allow you to compare your activity with others and join challenges. If you’re motivated by competition or community, Strava is a solid option.
- Why it’s great: Ideal for those who enjoy tracking their progress and sharing it with others.
- Bonus: The app tracks your elevation, which is helpful if you walk on hilly terrain.
4. Fitbit (for Fitbit device users)
If you already have a Fitbit device, the Fitbit app is a natural fit. It tracks your steps, heart rate, and calories, while also providing insights into your overall health. You can also follow walking plans tailored to your fitness level.
- Why it’s great: It offers a complete fitness tracking experience beyond just walking.
- Bonus: You can join community challenges with other Fitbit users.
5. Google Fit
Google Fit is free, easy to use, and integrates well with other fitness apps. It tracks your steps, distance, and calories burned, making it a simple choice for those who just want basic stats.
- Why it’s great: Great for Android users looking for a free, no-frills app.
- Bonus: It syncs with a variety of fitness apps and devices.
How Do I Start Walking on a Fitness App?
Getting started with a walking app is easy, and it can help you stay motivated. Here’s how you can set yourself up:
1. Pick an App that Suits Your Needs
Think about what you want from your walking routine. Do you want to track your progress or follow a structured plan? Or maybe you’re interested in competing with friends? Choose an app that fits your goals.
2. Create Your Profile
Most apps will ask for basic information like your age, weight, and fitness goals. This helps the app give you accurate feedback on things like calories burned and distance covered.
3. Set Goals
Whether it’s a daily step count or walking for a set time, create achievable goals. Apps like Pacer or Fitbit make this simple by allowing you to input your goals and adjust them over time.
4. Start Tracking Your Walks
Once your profile is set up and your goals are in place, you’re ready to start walking. Open the app before you begin, and it will track your distance, speed, and sometimes your route, depending on the app.
How Do You Walk for Fitness?
Walking for fitness isn’t just about moving from point A to point B—it’s about making your walks as effective as possible. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your walking routine:
1. Maintain Good Form
Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and swing your arms naturally. Focus on taking steady steps and avoid slouching.
2. Warm Up and Cool Down
Before you start, do a few minutes of light stretching or walk at a slow pace to get your muscles warmed up. At the end of your walk, cool down by stretching again to help your muscles recover.
3. Vary Your Pace
If you’re walking for fitness, don’t stick to the same pace the entire time. Try interval walking by speeding up for a minute or two, then slowing down for a minute. This helps burn more calories and keeps your heart rate elevated.
4. Track Your Progress
Using a walking for fitness app makes it easy to track how far you’ve walked, your pace, and how many calories you’ve burned. Apps like MapMyWalk or Strava provide detailed stats that can motivate you to keep pushing yourself.
Is Fitness Walking Good for You?
Yes! Fitness walking offers a range of health benefits without the intensity of more strenuous workouts. Here’s why walking is great for you:
1. Low Impact
Walking is easy on your joints, making it a good option for people of all ages and fitness levels. Unlike running, it doesn’t put as much stress on your knees and hips.
2. Cardiovascular Health
Walking regularly improves heart health by increasing your heart rate and improving circulation. It can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
3. Weight Management
While walking may seem less intense than other forms of exercise, it’s a great way to burn calories and manage your weight. A brisk 30-minute walk can burn around 150 calories, depending on your speed and weight.
4. Mental Health Boost
Walking outdoors can help reduce stress and improve your mood. It’s a great way to clear your head and take a break from daily responsibilities.
FAQs: Walking for Fitness App
1. What is the best app for walking?
The best walking apps include MapMyWalk, Pacer, and Strava. Each offers tracking, goal setting, and additional features to suit different fitness levels.
2. How do I start walking on a fitness app?
Choose an app, create a profile with your fitness goals, and start tracking your steps or distance. Apps like Fitbit and Google Fit offer easy-to-follow setups.
3. How do you walk for fitness?
To walk for fitness, maintain good posture, vary your pace with intervals, and track your progress using an app. Regular walking can improve both physical and mental health.
4. Is fitness walking good?
Yes, fitness walking is a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health, helps with weight management, and boosts mental well-being. It’s suitable for people of all fitness levels.
Final Thoughts
Walking is an effective and simple way to stay fit, and with the help of a walking for fitness app, you can keep track of your progress, set goals, and stay motivated. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, improve your heart health, or just get outside more, these apps make it easy to get started and keep going. So lace up your shoes, pick an app, and start walking your way to better health!
