One of the most efficient ways to get moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for weight loss and improved health is speed walking or power walking. A cross between regular walking and jogging, speed walking raises your heart rate for better cardiovascular function. It builds stronger bones without undue injury or strain since it's a low-impact regimen. When done for at least an hour on most days of the week, speed walking allows you to burn a pound of body fat every week. This contributes greatly to your efforts of getting rid of the excess pounds. As a natural consequence of your weight loss efforts, you will reduce your chances of developing heart disease and diabetes. When you have actually taken 10,000 steps a day, you are actually walking away from your chances of developing certain types of cancers.

If you want to engage in regular power walking, you have to be prepared for it. The only gear that you will want to invest on before you walk is a good pair of running shoes. This is not a mere walking activity-- you will be doing fast motions when you speed walk and running shoes are designed to effectively withstand the wear and tear of fast movement. In choosing your shoes, be sure to buy one with more cushioning in the midsole as this will absorb better any impact your movement brings, making you glide faster. Before you buy your shoes, bend it to see where it flexes most. Shoes that flex most at the ball of the foot follow the natural gait of power walkers and will suit your needs.

Your posture enhances your walk. Keep your back and your abdominal muscles firm. Your shoulders should be relaxed and your head held up with your chin kept parallel to the ground. Keep your eyes focused ahead, not down. Bend your elbows to about 90 degrees, keeping them close to your body while your hands are also slightly curled but relaxed. As you walk, do not sway your hips from side-to-side. Keep your arms swinging forward, not crossing your chest, alternate with each step. As you walk, your heel must strike the ground first while letting your foot roll forward as you push off with your toes. Don't over-stride but take smaller steps so you gain more speed.

Power walking is the perfect alternative to jogging because it is low-impact. Those who have joint problems or can't withstand high-impact exercises because of the excess baggage they carry will find this a better alternative. It increases the heart rate faster, augmenting the metabolic rate and burning more calories in a shorter amount of time without the fear of injury to the joints and knees.

Make sure that you warm up by walking at a steady pace for about five minutes before going full blast into your power walking routine. As you are nearing the end of your exercise, slow down your pace so you allow your body to cool down before you end the session. If you want to incorporate flexibility or stretching exercises into your speed walking regimen, do these immediately after your power walk to achieve lasting results.