If you’re like me, one of your health goals is to move more. While working from home can make it hard to get 10000 steps per day, but I’ve come up with a few easy tips that help me achieve my goal. I hope they’ll help you reach your step goal, too.
I am a fan of the FitBit fitness trackers and the easy to use companion app. Like most fitness trackers, the FitBit arrives preprogrammed with a goal of 10000 steps per day. At first, the goal felt intimidating and unattainable. I was determined and stayed focused on reaching 10000 steps per day.
Easy Ways to Get 10000 Steps Per Day
Break up your daily goal
Breaking up your daily goal is a great way to stay active throughout the day. Schedule two 20-minute walks on your calendar (you should be able to walk about one mile in 20 minutes) and one 60-minute walk (walk briskly to hit 3 miles!). If you have a co-worker or friend who wants to be more active, consider inviting them along. You can chat while walking to pass the time.
Set an Hourly Goal
Many fitness trackers allow you to set an hourly step goal and will buzz or vibrate to remind you to move. My FitBit Blaze lets me know if I haven’t moved 250 steps per hour during the work day. Often, I get busy working and lose track of time. The on-wrist vibration is a nice reminder to get up and move.
Take the Stairs
I take the stairs when I can. On a recent trip to Foxwoods Resort for the Red Sox Winter Weekend, I took the stairs every time I could. I logged a lot of steps that weekend!
Park Far Away
Unless the weather is terrible, I try to park as far away from the entrance as I can. The extra steps to the door can add up, especially if your day is full of errands!
Be Inefficient.
This one is crazy, I know! But, hear me out! Instead of taking one trip upstairs with your arms full of toys, books, and clothing, break it up into smaller trips. While working from my first floor office, I use the restroom on the second floor to get more daily steps. The longer walk is a nice break for me, and helps me to achieve my daily step goal.
Get a Dog.
Your kids will love this tip! And, this tip is crazier than the last one! We have a sweet, loveable black lab that loves to go outside. I walk him a few times per day, each walk gives me about 1200 steps! BAM! An easy way to achieve my daily step goal!
Take it Slow
If you’re new to exercising, it’s important to take it slow. You may want to start out with a lower step goal, such as 5000 steps per day for a few weeks as your body adjusts to the new activity level. Once you’re easily meeting that goal, increase it to 10000 steps per day.
Getting outside even when the weather is cold and snowy can be tough. Sometimes, I have a hard time convincing myself to go outside. But, I always feel better afterwards. Walking after a snowfall is so peaceful and calming.
Be sure to stay hydrated, check with your health plan about any benefits that may be available to you, and consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
What are your tips for hitting 10000 steps per day?
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