Looking to Shape up for Summer? The Solution May be the Steps You're Alre...( Celebrity Trainer and Omron Offer Eas...),Health

Celebrity Trainer and Omron Offer Easy Tips to Elevate Your Walk to a Workout

BANNOCKBURN, Ill., June 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Summer is officially here, and that means longer days and warmer weather are afoot. The season is also notoriously a time when people want to get in shape. Yet nowadays, hitting the gym can be daunting, especially with so many people pressed for time and money. But good news - there's an easy way to shape up for summer that's accessible, affordable and can accommodate even the busiest of schedules - it's walking. No wonder it's the number one fitness activity(1) for adults. And with the simple addition of a few fitness goals and a pedometer, you have everything you need to elevate your walk to a workout.

Walk It Out

Many people don't realize the walking they already do each day is a positive step to help them get fit. In fact, studies have uncovered a long list of benefits from walking, including reduced body fat, lowered cholesterol and blood pressure as well as increased flexibility and mental well-being. It's widely recommended adults take 10,000 steps a day, the equivalent of about five miles, which can be achieved by walking 30 - 60 minutes at one time or in multiple 10-minute increments over the course of the day.

Walking is also a key component to many fitness plans, including that of trainer-to-the-stars, Ramona Braganza, who's helped shape some of the hottest bodies in Hollywood from Jessica Alba to Halle Berry. "For me, being fit is a lifestyle. I'd be bored just going to the gym every day. That's why I always recommend walking to my clients as a great form of exercise," Braganza said. "Adding a few easy things into your daily routine can help you make sure that every step counts."

A Passion for Pedometers

One of Braganza's favorite fitness tools is a pedometer, which can help keep track of the steps you're already taking and give
'/>"/>