This is your seventh HealthGuide issue on foot health. This issue contains information from RealAge about keeping your feet health with regular exercise.

Keep Feet Fit with Exercise

Your feet play a major role in your quest to keep your body healthy through exercise. But did you ever think that regular exercise might be good for your feet, too?

Just like other parts of the body, feet benefit from regular exercise. However, some high-impact activities can be rough on feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends walking as one of the best forms of exercise for feet. Walking helps to exercise the muscles of the feet but is gentle on the feet, too. It's true.

To begin your walking program, start out slowly, especially if you are exercising for the first time. Moderation is the key to getting your walking program off on the right foot. Over the course of several weeks, gradually build your speed and distance until you reach your target. (Most people should exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.)

Here are a few walking tips to protect your feet during your workout and also ensure that you are following good walking form:

Land on the heel of your foot and roll forward, pushing off on the ball of your foot.
Keep your head up, your stomach tucked in, and your back straight.
Swing your arms at your sides to aid momentum and balance.
Never walk barefoot.
Proper footwear is a must for walking or any other physical activity, so be sure to get the appropriate gear before you start your exercise program.