It’s said that a journey begins with a single step. The same is true if you’re on the journey to build a body that looks and feels healthier. But, what happens when you literally take one step, and then just keep walking?
Taking 10,000 steps every day will burn about 500 calories in weight loss terms that translates into about one pound a week! Below we’ve listed some easy tips for getting moving.
How to Walk 10,000 Steps a Day:
1. Invest in a Pedometer. This handy device measures how many steps you take in a day. The pedometer works by recording a step each time the hips move up and down. Some will also translate those steps into “miles walked” or “calories burned.” Find a model that suits your life-style, whether you need a simple clip-on or a pedometer smartphone app.
2. Make the Commitment. There’s no question that change can be hard. But walking 10,000 steps a day is one healthy-living habit that’s easier than you think. Start your commitment by setting a goal. Use the pedometer to figure out how many steps you take in a normal day, and then add about 1,000 to 2,000 steps every week until you reach 10,000.
3. Just Do It. Walking 10,000 steps into the day Is not as difficult as you might think. Get closer to your goal by choosing to:
- Walk the kids to the bus stop instead of driving them.
- Take your pooch for a walk instead of letting him or her out into the yard.
- Walking a co-worker’s office instead of emailing or calling.
- Park at the far end of the lot instead of a space close to the entrance.
- Walk the steps instead of using an escalator or elevator.
- Stroll during your lunch break instead of pinning Ryan Gosling. (Hey, we get Ryan too, but walking is better for the body!)
- Invite a friend or neighbor to take a walk instead of chatting via text or Facebook.
- Walk the mall during hot, cold or rainy weather instead of lounging on a couch.
4. Set Reminders. Whether you use apps, wall calendars, or an alarm clock, make yourself remember that it’s time to get moving. For example, if you’re a desk jockey, set a reminder to get up once each hour and take a brief walk around the office.
5. Up the Intensity. Any steps are better than no steps, but you can maximize walking by boosting the intensity. For example, raise intensity by climbing up a steep hill or walking on a sandy beach. Another way to increase calorie burn is by walking with 2-3 pound dumbbells.
Figuring out how to reach 10,000 steps a day isn’t too tough—but you do need to make the commitment, and you do need to get started. So what are you waiting for?