Fast Food Makes a Comeback!

Sometimes there's nothing better than a big, juicy hamburger from McDonalds or Burger King. But sadly, we are all aware that fast food doesn't provide the healthiest of food choices. Good news! Fast food restaurants are now coming up with items that provide more nutrients, less trans fats, and are generally healthier than that mouthwatering Big Mac or Double Whopper. Click here to read all about it!

Great Walking Tips!

Here are some great tips on how to properly walk when exercising, as well as a few things you might not know!

*Always remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to avoid dehydration.

How to Walk:
Move at a steady pace, breathing deeply, with head erect, back straight and abdomen flat. Swing your arms freely at your sides. In the beginning, walk on level stretches of road or sidewalks, avoiding steep hills. If you are walking either in the early morning or at night, be sure to wear reflective clothing. If the sun is shining, wear sunscreen, hat and protective clothing.

Pace Yourself:
Monitor your level of exertion. The simplest way is to listen to your body. Five to ten minutes into your activity, your body should begin to feel warm. You may begin to perspire. Your breathing should increase. If your pace seems too easy, increase it slightly until you feel as if you are pushing yourself. If you feel it's too hard, ease up.

Another way to pace youself is the "talk-sing" test

• If you can't talk and exercise at the same time, you're working too hard.
• If you can talk while you exercise, you're doing just fine.
• If you can sing while you exercise, it would be safe and more beneficial to exercise a little harder.

Shoe Buying Tips:

Support: The back of the shoe should be firm to help control heel motion.

Cushioning: Shoes should have plenty of cushioning, especially in the heel.

Performance: Shoes should be lightweight and durable and be made of material like nylon mesh that will allow sweat to evaporate.

Fit:

• Shop late in the day, when your feet are the biggest
• Wear the same type of socks you will wear when exercising
• Make sure the toe box is big enough to wiggle your toes and is one thumbnail longer than your longest toe
• Feel inside shoes for seams or ridges
• Check the shoes to see if they bend easily at the widest part
• Walk briskly around the store to check for cushioning and comfort
• Make sure the shoes feel good on your feet

Learn more about great exercise and diet tips at Scale Back Alabama.