Walking is the one of best preventive, as well as curative, treatments for diabetes. It is a sure and safe way towards good health. Walking is a complete cardio vascular workout. Walking for diabetes is a treatment that suits all those who are at a risk of acquiring diabetes or even for those who already are suffering from it.
Walking for diabetes requires very little preparation and equipment. All walking needs is a pair of walking shoes and some comfortable clothes to walk in. The gym is not the only place that one can get exercise, and a person may not essentially require a treadmill. All you need is a space that has a flat and safe area to walk on. Just make sure that when walking, you walk on level ground which is not slippery. This will help you avoid unnecessary sprains and falls. If the space is not too large, increase the number of circuits that you make. If it is possible, find a place that has plenty of fresh air and greenery, such as a park. In a place like this, you will not only be exercising but also feel rejuvenated and fresh.
The best time to be walking for diabetes is early in the morning. This will make you avoid the day’s pollution and noise. It will also boost and pep you up for the day’s activities.
Before you begin walking for diabetes, spend a few minutes to stretch your muscles and relax your joints. Breathe in deeply and exhale a few times. After this, warm up the different parts of your body and rotate your joints. Start with your neck and go downwards to your shoulders, waist, knees and heels. This will relax your body and reduce the risk of injury and will help you enjoy your walk more.
It has been proved that walking at least 3 hours a week and reducing your body weight slightly will cut your risk of diabetes by half.
However, if you have diabetes, take very good care of your feet. Do not neglect cuts and scratches. Check every day for anything that is not normal, such as swelling, blisters, redness or cuts. After the walk, soak feet or wash feet with tepid water. Make sure you dry your feet well especially between the toes. Protect your feet from extreme temperatures by wearing the right kind of footwear. Do not walk bare foot unless it is inside the house. Keep the blood circulation to your feet by raising your feet while sitting.