AARP Hearing Center
Even if all you really need are comfortable clothes and a sneaker with arch support, these fun finds can help you up your walking game or go the distance after dusk falls.
Trekking poles
They’re a bit pricey and require some practice (you don’t, for instance, reach out and plant one like you might on a mountain slope, but, rather, trail them behind you at a 45-degree angle until swinging one to about the heel of your leading foot). But trekking poles, and the spinal rotation you get with using them correctly, have been shown to increase balance and stability while you walk and to distribute your weight more evenly, which means less stress on your knees and lower back. Plus, a recent American Journal of Preventive Medicine study found that using poles has more beneficial effects on your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption than brisk walking without them.
Running belt
While fanny packs are actually trendy again (pricey leather versions were all over runways recently, usually worn strapped over a single shoulder), a running belt will give you the sleekest hands-free option. Designed to use the minimal amount of fabric to hold your phone and keys, these belts feel better than a bulky pack bumping against your hip when you pick up speed. Some also come with mini water bottles strapped in place.
Light-up cap
If you know that a headlamp might be useful for nighttime visibility but can’t quite see yourself strapping a high beam to your head, try a baseball cap with built-in LED lights. Available at outdoor emporiums like Cabela’s and L.L. Bean, these hi-hats give you the option of flipping on the beams as you wish (thanks to on/off buttons on visors). They also provide variously angled floodlights to help with both close-up tasks and longer-range visibility, plus a battery that provides up to 43 hours of run time.
More on Health
Follow Your Path to Fitness and Health
How walking can help with weight loss, memory, cancer prevention and more
Denise Austin's Fat-Burning Workout
If you want to walk to lose weight, our AARP fitness expert has the plan for you
Andy Puddicombe's Walking Meditation
Try this 15-minute 'practice' to bring the benefits of mindfulness into your daily life, one step at a time
Recommended for You