My "test" walk yesterday....

....was not so successful. Going for a 6 mile walk at my husband's pace, was, well, brave. I don't want to say  it was "stupid". I refuse to speak negatively about trying to be "stronger". 

However, I AM paying for it today. But I have a feeling there are a few reasons for this: 

1 - I'm walking with someone who does 6-8 mile walks every day of the year with very few exceptions. 

2 - I'm walking with someone who is pretty healthy and does not suffer with daily pain issues. 

3  - I'm walking on asphalt with someone who has brand new sneakers. My sneakers have been through two seasons. The bottoms are about worn through. 

Well, I don't really have the money for new ones right now. I am not a martyr, my dear Fibro friends. 
My husband is going through a really tough time right now because of his job loss and it could affect me as well. So, I prefer that he keep his walks up. His walking sneakers were literally falling apart. 

I DO NOT advise YOU to do this. Do not sacrifice your health for another if you can avoid. In other words, HAVE the proper walking shoes if you're going to take this form of exercise up. 

Now, on that note, if your shoes are worn, old, etc., you need to replace them. I have a friend who has had a "brand new" pair of "running/walking" sneakers in the box for over a year. I told her that she may as well pitch them, unless she was just wearing them for short trips to the store or just for "dressing" casually. 

She should not use them for walking, much less walking. WHY? Because the rubber soles will harden. When you buy "good quality" walking or running sneakers, the sole should be soft and pliable. If it has hardened you shouldn't buy them. They are probably "last season's model". The harder sole will hurt your feet, legs and back. 

Just like my worn sneakers are going to hurt my feet because the ball of the foot is almost worn through. The only thing they are good for is walking on a rubber track or doing housework. That's it. That's what I DO use them for. So, wearing them yesterday wasn't too smart. 

I plan to try to keep my walking outside up through the winter...I know it sounds crazy but there is something about being outside that helps me "depression"-wise, even if it isn't sunny outside. HOWEVER, I am trying to research "trail" or other "outdoor" walking shoes so that I don't hurt my back and legs. My current sneakers will then be pitched and I will be forced to purchase new walking sneakers next spring for that and the summer. 

Point is, if you walk every day for exercise, your shoes should be replaced every 3 months or so. This was not financially feasible for me. So, I tried to be "careful", except  of course for yesterday.
That wasn't a bright move on my part and I probably won't be walking with my spouse again until the fall or winter and I can afford the new "winterized" type of walking shoes or boots.
Take it easy today folks. It's "Labor Day" in the US. Don't work harder...don't work at all! 

Do something for yourself and do something that you REALLY enjoy. If you don't feel well, DO NOT feel obligated to participate in any outings if you're not up to it. DO NOT feel guilty! 

Until later.......

Blessings..................

Mo M.