One Step at a Time

Presented by TP Mechanical | Provided by HORAN

Whether meandering from the couch to the refrigerator for a snack or cruising around the block as part of an exercise routine, almost everyone includes some walking into their day. Walking is a great form of exercise for achieving better health and burning calories. But do you know the recommended amount of walking to achieve optimum benefits?

Studies show that walking 10,000 steps, or about 5 miles, is an excellent daily goal for most people. But you don’t have to do endless laps around the local high school track; steps throughout your day all add up to a healthier you. Try wearing a pedometer to help you monitor how close you are to reaching your goal—whether you start by aiming for 5,000, 10,000 or 20,000 steps a day. Here are some ways to incorporate more steps into your daily life:

• Climb the stairs instead of awkwardly staring down strangers in the elevator.
• Park a few spots farther from the door and stretch your legs with long strides before shuffling through a crowded store.
• If you sit at a desk all day, drink a lot of water. Your body will periodically remind you to get up for a stroll to the restroom.
• Window-shop downtown or at the mall instead of surfing online stores.
• Give in to those puppy eyes and take your dog for a walk.

Every step counts so keep walking! Although a vigorous walk of at least 30 minutes has additional benefits, reaching 10,000 steps every day is a great start toward better health.