Walk for 10 minutes, and go one or two minutes more every other day until you are walking about 20 minutes. Once you are within your training range for 20 minutes, gradually increase your distance. Cool down by walking at your warm-up pace for five more minutes. Hold each stretch for 20 seconds, then switch to the opposite body part. When the weather is bad, walk indoors.
Many malls offer free walking time before shopping hours in a safe, pleasant environment.
Set aside a time of day that's most convenient for you. You can also break up your walking time into two or three sessions per day. Being overambitious when you start a walking program can cause an injury or lead to enough discomfort that you may lose interest. If you feel stiff and sore a few days into your program, you may be walking too fast, too far, too soon. Don't worry about distance in the beginning.