New Year, New Fitness Goals: Why Weighted Vests and Incline Walking Should Be Part of Your Routine
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
As the New Year approaches, I'm begining to think about my fitness goals. What about you?
For me, turning 51 means I’m more committed than ever to being in the best shape of my life. However, after 50 years on this planet, I’ve also become incredibly realistic about what that means. I need workouts that fit seamlessly into my life as an online entrpreneur and busy expat mum.
For me, that’s a combination of outdoor walking in nature and treadmill workouts that pack a punch—even when life gets hectic. The secret ingredient? A weighted vest and walking at an incline.
Let’s explore the benefits of these simple yet effective tools, along with some of my favorite fitness finds available on my Amazon storefront to help you get started.
Grow Your Styling Business Every Week!
Subscribe to 'Grow Your Styling Biz' Newsletter
Learn how to grow your styling business the right way using the latest marketing and sales information to secure more paid bookings.
Why Walking is the Ultimate Workout
Walking is one of the most underrated forms of exercise. It’s low-impact, suitable for all fitness levels, and highly accessible. Whether you prefer a brisk outdoor walk or a controlled treadmill session, walking is a fantastic way to improve cardiovascular health, burn calories, and boost mental well-being. For expats like me, walking also provides the perfect opportunity to explore new surroundings while maintaining fitness.
- Functional Fitness: Weighted walking mimics real-life activities like carrying groceries or lifting kids, making you stronger for everyday tasks.
- Bone Health: For those of us over 50, maintaining bone density is critical. A weighted vest creates the resistance needed to stimulate bone growth, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Improved Strength and Endurance: Carrying extra weight forces your muscles to work harder, building strength and endurance over time.Increased
- Calorie Burn: The added weight increases your energy expenditure, helping you burn more calories during your workou
Weighted vests come in various styles and weights, so it’s important to choose one that fits comfortably and suits your fitness level. You can check out my favorite weighted vest on my Amazon storefront.
The Benefits of Walking on an Incline
Adding an incline to your treadmill walk transforms it from a leisurely activity to a challenging workout. Here’s how:
- Cardiovascular Boost: The incline increases your heart rate, improving cardiovascular health and endurance.Engages
- More Muscles: Walking uphill activates your glutes, hamstrings, and calves, toning and strengthening your lower body.
- Low Impact: Unlike running, walking on an incline is easy on the joints, making it an ideal option for older adults or those recovering from injuries.
- Engages More Muscles: Walking uphill activates your glutes, hamstrings, and calves, toning and strengthening your lower body.Just like the weighted vest, walking on an incline significantly boosts calorie burn compared to walking on a flat surface.
When I’m on the treadmill, I set the incline to 4-6% and strap on my weighted vest for a double-duty workout. Sometimes, I even bring my work along— a threadmill laptop table helps me multi-task while improve my heart and stength. I love a win, win!
Creating a Sustainable Routine
The key to achieving fitness goals—especially as we age—is consistency. Here are some tips for building a sustainable walking routine:
- Start Small: If you’re new to weighted walking or incline training, start with shorter sessions and lighter weights. Gradually increase as your fitness improves.
- Schedule It: Treat your workouts like appointments. Whether it’s an early morning outdoor walk or a treadmill session after the kids are in bed, consistency is key.
- Set Realistic Goals: Focus on progress rather than perfection. Small, consistent efforts add up over time.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels. Rest when needed and adjust your routine to avoid overtraining.
- Mix It Up: Avoid boredom by alternating between outdoor walks and treadmill sessions. Experiment with different inclines and weights to keep things interesting.
Why Fitness After 50 is Different—and Better
Turning 50 has taught me the importance of working smarter, not harder. It’s not about punishing workouts or quick fixes; it’s about finding what works for your body and lifestyle. Walking with a weighted vest on an incline is a perfect example of this principle. It’s efficient, effective, and easy to adapt to your needs.
More importantly, fitness after 50 is about appreciating what your body can do rather than fixating on what it can’t. It’s about staying strong and vibrant for the life you want to live—whether that’s chasing after kids, exploring new countries, or simply feeling good in your own skin.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re inspired to make 2025 your fittest year yet, there’s no better time to start. Check out the fitness essentials on my Amazon storefront and start building your walking routine today. Whether you’re hitting the trails, the treadmill, or a bit of both, I hope these tips and tools help you feel strong, energized, and ready to take on the year ahead.
Hi, I'm Aileen Lane AICI CIP
6-Figure Mentor To Personal Stylists
Empowering stylists to achieve financial and personal freedom while embodying their best, most authentic selves.
Saturday, January 11, 2025
Thursday, January 09, 2025
Exclusive For You
Free Online Colour Analysis Training
FREE TRAINING
How Image Consultants Can Be Fully Booked With Online Colour Analysis...
...using skills you already have!
Sign Up for my 3 part training Now and get The EXACT Same Strategy I used to go from having the odd client here and there to my first 10k month.
