Simple Ways to Get More Steps In Your Day #motivation #health #fitness

I love to walk and try to get at least 10k steps a day.  Over the past year I have logged over 1 million steps.  I am always looking for ways to get in more steps throughout the day.  Here are some ideas for those of you who are looking to get in some extra steps during the day.

Walk your kids to school

This will give you and your kids a bit of fresh air and energy to start the day!

Walk during your lunch break

After you have your lunch, instead of sitting and chatting, get up and take a walk.  You can even encourage your coworkers to walk along with you.   Keep a spare pair of sneakers at the office so that you can throw them on before your walk.

Park in the furthest spot in the lot

By parking in a far spot, you are forcing yourself to take extra steps to get to your destination.  

Walk around the Mall 

When I visit a strip mall or indoor mall, I make it a point to do a couple of laps around the perimeter of the mall before I shop.

Get a walking partner

Having someone to walk with will help you to stay motivated and may even force you to walk on days you really don't want to.

Walk during commercials

A lot of times, especially on rainy days, I will stand up and walk around my home or in place, during commercials.  It allows me to get in 3-5 minutes of continuous steps at home. Trust me, they add up.

Take day trips

Take day trips to the park, zoo, museum, or any place that requires you to walk.  

Window shop

Take a walk around a picturesque downtown area and window shop.

Get off at an earlier bus or train stop

If you take public transportation, consider stopping at the stop before your intended destination and walk the rest of the way.

Use the stairs

Skip the elevators and escalators and opt to take the stairs instead.

Get a fitness step tracker

You will be surprised at how much more you want to walk when you have a step tracker. They encourage you to keep on moving.  I try to improve my count all of the time.

Join a walking group

See if there are any local walking groups in your area, or join an online group like Yes.fit.  I am a member of Yes.fit and I join virtual races all of the time.  They keep me motivated and moving.  

Walk the dog

If you don't have a dog, walk with your friend or neighbor when they walk their dog.

Do housework

Doing housework, like mowing the lawn, raking  or tidying up after the kids can help you get in extra steps.

Go sight seeing

Research your surrounding area for places to go sight seeing, like the beach or a lake area.  They usually will have a local sight seeing area that requires a lot of walking.

Change up your routine

If you always walk the same route, you are going to get bored.  Venture out and look for walking paths, running tracks, trails or courses around your area that are walker friendly.  Try out different surfaces too, like gravel, pavement, grass etc.  This will help you to use different muscles.  You can also look for hills in your area, to give yourself a challenge and work those glutes!

Whatever you choose to do to get more steps in your day is a step in the right direction.  Always look for ways to improve your health and make you feel better.  Remember to always check with your doctor before starting any exercise routine.

Keep Moving!

Photos source: Pixabay