Having been a lazy bones for most of my life, I've decided to start walking to and from work. Sounds obvious I know, but it will equate to around 15 miles a week, includes some hilly bits (Crookesmoor to London Road) and should save me around £50 a month in bus fares :)

I don't really have much experience of walking any distance and this morning noticed my feet feel pretty sore. I'm looking to improve my overall fitness and any reduction in weight/toning up would be a great bonus.

Does anyone have any tips as to how I can maximise the effects/keep motivated etc?

Thanks

Good for you :thumbsup:

Obviously, make sure you're wearing comfy shoes like trainers or walking shoes. If you need to wear smart or pretty shoes for work, leave them there and change into them when you get there. Also, try to wear layers, the walk back up those hilly bits is going to get a bit warm, so its best if you can strip a layer or two off to keep you comfortable. A waterproof jacket with a hood or a waterproof hat is easier than an umbrella.
Also, when you're walking a bit of a distance a backpack is easier to carry than a shoulder or handbag.

Try having some music or radio to listen to as you walk, but if you do this be VERY careful to look all around when crossing roads etc, as it's incredible how much of your awareness of traffic and other pedestrians etc comes from your hearing. Try and have a bit of awareness that on the dark mornings/evenings pedestrians are not always very easy to spot for motorists, especially in heavy traffic - so keep your wits about you when crossing roads.

As for the motivation bit, have you thought about getting a pedometer? It'll be really interesting to see how many miles you're clocking up and how many calories you're burning off, get one with a stopwatch and you'll be able to see how you're time to travel the distance is improving too!

Good Luck!

Try and have a bit of awareness that on the dark mornings/evenings pedestrians are not always very easy to spot for motorists, especially in heavy traffic - so keep your wits about you when crossing roads.

Yes, if possible wear something light or reflective - I have no desire to mow you down because I didn't see you (or for any other reason of course, but you see what I mean).