Spring is just around the corner, but morning temperatures are still quite cold. So before heading out on your walk, consider doing some stretches inside, where it's warm. This pre-walk activity will activate your muscles and raise your body temperature so you won't feel so stiff at the start.
One of my favorite stretches is foot circles. Lay on your back and extend your right leg. Flex the foot by drawing your toes towards you. Next, take hold of your left knee by placing your hands behind your knee cap. Gently roll your foot in circles to the left. Do this about 10-20 times. Then reverse directions. Finally, point and flex that foot 10-20 times and switch sides. Watch that your foot gets a full, smooth rotation.
For more stretches, check out the OregonLive walking blog archives. If you have a stretch you'd like to share, let me know and I'll post it.
Enjoy your walk!