Walking is a fabulous and amazingly easy way to get your exercise. It's a great way to get in shape and stay in shape, whether you're on the road or at home.

I like walking for a variety of reasons:

• It's easier on the joints and muscles than running. As a result, it's more fun, and you'll recover faster and be less prone to injuries
• Other than a good pair of shoes, walking doesn't require any special equipment or clothing.
• Anyone at any fitness level can participate, as opposed to running or other strenuous activities, which require a minimum level of fitness.
• Walking can be done in short bursts, for example, between client meetings, after dinner, or while waiting for your connecting flight.
• When it's cold out, I don't mind walking while bundled up (versus running, which is cumbersome if you have to wear a lot of clothes).
• When it's hot out, I can walk without getting as sweaty as running, hopefully negating the need to take a second shower during an already busy travel day.
• I get to see the sights in the town that I'm visiting.
• Although we should all have warm-ups and stretching as a part of our regular workout routine, I know the realities of traveling often dictate cutting things short. Unlike running, walking only requires minimal warm-up and cool-down.
• Unlike working out in the hotel gym, co-workers can't track me down while I'm walking!
• I can multi-task while walking, which is tough with other forms of exercise. (See sidebar for interesting ways to maximize your walking time.)

And, finally:

• Walking for 30 minutes at a 4 mph pace burns about 100 calories per 100 pounds of body weight. Not too shabby!