Walking does not put as much stress on joints as running (or even jugging) on a hard surface does - which is one of the reasons why it is considered a low-impact exercise and is often recommended for weight loss.

Some expects even claim that “if you can walk, you can lose weight.� Obviously, most people who are overweight can walk, but just because they do, it does not seem to help them lose weight.

Hence, “if you can walk, you can lose weight� is an unnecessary oversimplification, which probably leads to disappointing results.

However, there are cases when a little more activity is all that is needed to create an energy deficit which, in addition to a good diet, helps shed unwanted pounds.

Walking is just a great exercise all around. You do not need a gym membership or any special equipment to walk.

Speaking of equipment, actually, it is a gadget; Pfizer is offering a free pedometer to anyone in the United States (Carrie, thanks for the tip). Fill out a short survey on their site to receive one.