The Different Types of Walking

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Here are some different types of walking you can consider incorporating in your new year health plan.

Fitness walking is called by many different names - power walking, fitness walking, health walking. Power walking is commonly used to represent an exaggerated walking style. This style of overstriding and exaggerated arm movements is often linked with injuries. Because of this, I don't generally use the term power walking. A better term for a healthful energetic walking pace is "fitness walking".

Fitness walking is much more than a stroll or nature walk. When fitness walking you incorporate the muscles of the upper body making it a GREAT aerobic activity. It burns approximately the same calories as running, yet it is much easier on the body. Because more muscles are used it burns calories much quicker than less aggressive walking. It also tones muscles in the buttocks, thighs, hips, shoulders, upper back and abs. Most fitness walkers average about 12 to 15 minutes per mile.

Unlike racewalking; there is no official definition. There are no rules. If you walk at a purposeful fitness walking pace using the good technique you are a fitness walker. Use the tips above to ensure good walking form and to increase your pace. 

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One FREE App for New Year's Weight Loss

I will be sharing five free apps that you can use this year to help you achieve your New Year's Resolution goals. Each day this week there will be a new post featuring a different app. Until then check out our recommended weight lost app.

1. Weight Loss Resolution

2014 might not have been the best year for weight loss or healthy eating for you. So, you resolve that in 2015 all of that will change. Here is a a quick and easy app that you can use to achieve your weight loss goal.

Lose it is a comprehensive app that track your calorie and exercise for free. Loseit.com says that the app 'Lose It!' is designed with one goal - to help you lose weight in a healthy, sustainable way. No magic pills, no crazy diets - just a simple, easy-to-use program that helps you stay in your calorie budget. 

Top Pallet Projects as Seen on Pinterest

Pallets are made of sturdy wood to support huge shipping loads, such as landscaping materials or boxes of foodstuffs. You most often see them at home improvement stores and grocery stores. Though they can often be reused by companies, many more are simply thrown out once they are used. Some thrifty DIY’ers have found a number of ingenious uses for pallets that save them from the landfill and create some interesting furniture and décor pieces.

Here are just some of the most interesting, unique and appealing pallet projects that you can do yourself, as seen on Pinterest:

Pallet Bedroom (http://pinterest.com/pin/566679565582893311/)

Rustic charm and a solid bed are the result with this easy pallet project. It would be easy to adjust the size for a twin, full or king.

Wall Shelf (http://pinterest.com/pin/385550418070169155/)

A little bit of stain turns an ordinary pallet into an interesting shelf.

Patio Benches (http://pinterest.com/pin/293015519476459045/)

With a little paint and some decorative cushions and seating, these pallets are transformed into unique benches for your outdoor entertaining.

Bed and Playhouse (http://pinterest.com/pin/6966574396625384/)

This pallet project is every little kid’s dream: It combines a loft bed with a playhouse and features a bench and cubby holes.

Pallet House (http://pinterest.com/pin/239746380136252755/)

With a lot of elbow grease, you can make anything out of pallets – even a house!

Pallet Couches (http://pinterest.com/pin/205476801721904031/)

Just like the patio benches, all you need are some colorful seating cushions to make pallets into a beautiful couch.

Garden Patio (http://pinterest.com/pin/105905028710423783/)

Grow herbs, flowers and produce between the slats of your pallets, and create a deck for relaxing. Paint it a bright color for a unique look.

Room Divider (http://pinterest.com/pin/149322543868074255/)

Whether stained or painted, pallets can be used to create a unique room divider.

Dog House (http://pinterest.com/pin/448460075364913008/)

Give your pooch a place to rest in style with some upcycled pallets.

Playhouse (http://pinterest.com/pin/198510296048150241/)

… or build the house a little bigger and make it into a play space for your children.

What other great upcycling ideas have you seen for pallets? Have you made any of them yourself? Share your finds and your experiences in the comments!

About the Author:

Bridget Sandorford is a freelance blog and culinary writer, where recently she's been researching the career path of a chef. In her spare time, she enjoys biking, painting and working on her first cookbook.