These days, everyone seems to have a Fitbit or other activity tracker. But what’s behind that popular 10,000 steps-per-day figure? And how can you make sure you get enough activity for your lifestyle and wellness goals? Read on to learn more.
A person living a sedentary lifestyle gets between 1,000 and 3,000 steps. One mile comes out to about 2,000 steps, and that golden 10,000 number comes out to about five miles. But don’t be intimidated by these numbers! With a few tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be exceeding your goals in no time.
Increase 300 Steps At a Time
Instead of shooting for 10,000+ steps right out of the gate, aim to increase by a few hundred steps each day. This will help you celebrate every improvement and breaks down your big goal into smaller, more manageable goals.
Consider Using a Pedometer or Activity Tracker
Just like recording what you eat, logging your activity or seeing the numbers in front of you will keep your activity level top-of-mind. It becomes a fun game to beat yesterday’s total each day and most of these trackers will send you little reminders to get up and move throughout the day.
Walk to Work, Lunch, or Around the Block
If you live near your workplace, walk to work a few times a week. Walk to lunch instead of driving. Get up and walk around the block to beat the afternoon slump or after dinner. Your family and pets will enjoy the extra movement, too.
Set Reminders to Get Up and Get Moving
Some fitness and activity trackers nudge you to stand for a few minutes each hour or beat the hour’s step goal. Make use of these helpful reminders, or set your own on your phone or work calendar. Taking 10 minutes for a walk outside or around the office not only pushes you closer to your 10,000-step goal — it will get blood flowing and bring some fresh oxygen to your brain, too.
Park Farther Away
Are you always trying to park as close as possible to stores and restaurants? Try parking toward the back of the lot next time. You’ll get more steps in without even trying. Same goes for using the stairs at work instead of the elevator — you’ll be surprised how fast it becomes habit.
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