Walking has never been one of my favorite pastimes. Give me a bike any day!

After a knee sprain several years ago, the doctor prescribed a walking/bike program to help strengthen it. I enjoyed riding my exercise bike all winter, but when spring arrived, I knew I needed to start walking outside. I tried different ideas to encourage myself. Some worked; some didn't. In spite of my successes and failures, I finally learned to look forward to my walks.

Three general suggestions that apply to anyone considering a walking program:

1. Most important-check with your doctor, especially if you have a health challenge. Since walking is the least stressful exercise, most doctors encourage it.

2. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Even if it means investing in a new pair, your feet will thank you. Check in your closet before purchasing a new pair. I wore my old nurse's shoes which worked well.

3. Also wear comfortable clothing. Depending on the season and your location, you might also want to take a sun hat, sunglasses, and a sweater or sweatshirt. A small folding umbrella could be helpful if it looks like rain may fall.

The following are some of the ideas that worked for me. You might want to try several:

• Walk as early in the day as possible. The air is cleaner and more crisp.

• Vary your route periodically. I found the same path boring. An interesting and changing route will not only be more enjoyable, it will encourage you to continue this health-building habit.

• Appreciate God's handiwork. Notice things that will touch you with God's nearness-a gurgling stream; a bird's song; sunlight sparkling on the pond.

• I take my cassette or CD player and listen to the Bible, a book, music, or an informative CD/tape. Sometimes I take my Kindle Fire to listen to a book download. You could take your smartphone and listen to almost anything you choose through an app or a website. Some days I take nothing. So much of our day is filled with noise-TV, the dishwasher, the neighbor's barking dog-that the silence is soothing. Quiet can be a treat after the noise of daily living.

• One day you might take your camera and take pictures of your neighborhood. Start a scrapbook with these pictures and keep it on the coffee table to share with friends and family or to remind you of the scenery where you live.

• Learn or meditate on Scripture or review verses you've previously memorized. You'll be renewing your mind while refreshing your body.

• Make this your prayer time. Have your Bible reading at home and your prayer time outside. One day you might pray through your regular prayer list and the next you could pray as the Spirit leads.

• Join a local walking club. Many park districts offer one, or team up with a friend or family member who wants to start walking.

So why not grab your walking shoes, pick up your sweater, and head out for your walk.