Yahoo Health posted what I think to be a very sensible workout routine for anyone trying to get in shape. The hook for this article was getting in shape in time for summer, but I think it is a worthwhile workout for anyone trying to get in shape anytime. Note though, the author mentions that it is a great workout routine for 4 to 6 weeks. I think 4 weeks is the minimum. Remember the post I made a while back about about the question of how long does it takes to get in shape and suggesting it really takes 6 weeks to get in shape? This article indicates the same time frame.

The workout is definitely not hard core. I think it is within the reach of most anyone who needs to get fit, lose weight and get in shape. Here is the workout plan from Yahoo titled “Get a Summer Bod in 4 Weeks”

1. Walk for 20 minutes at a moderate to intense pace, increasing your speed a little every five minutes or so. Then do one set of walking lunges (10 on each leg) bending deeply at the knee with each stride. Next, walk quickly for 5 minutes, and then repeat walking lunges. Repeat 5 minutes of fast walking, followed by walking lunges, 2 more times. Finish with two sets of 10 push-ups.

2. Do 10 abdominal crunches followed by 10 leg lifts on each side (lying on your side). Repeat three times. Then, do 25 jumping jacks followed by 30 seconds of running in place (kicking your knees up high). Repeat 3 times.

3. Walk for 5 minutes, jog for 2 minutes. Repeat 4-5 times.

4. Walk your heart out. Go for a 60-minute walk along the beach, in a lovely neighborhood, or hit the streets for an urban trek, but keep a steady, moderate-to-strong pace for the entire walk.

I still don’t think walking is all that great, unless you add hills or some other resistance. I like that the author says to walk with a moderate to strong pace though. There are many people this workout could benefit that can only walk so I can’t be too harsh about it. I just think that when people start walking they tend to take it easy when the intent is too really move it.

The thing I love about this workout is the walking lunges. I do a ton of those a  exercise classes like boot camp and during my solo workouts at the gym. Lunges are fantastic for your legs and glutes.