Simple Ways To Get 10,000 Steps A Day

10,000 steps a day, it really sounds like a lot, doesn’t it? I know that when I first started on my Weight Watchers journey, that number seemed so scary! Now even when I don’t hit the gym I make it a point to hit my 10,000 steps.   Every single little step is a great start to a healthy lifestyle!

 Now, first off, you really need a way to track your steps!  I have to say that technology has come a long way from our mom’s pedometers, now from what our parents used.  They are now Bluetooth and heart rate-enabled. Fitbit has always been the tracker I have used since 2013.  I started out with the Fitbit Zip, then the Fitbit One, next the Fitbit Flex 2, and then the Fitbit Charge 2.  I now use Garmin Vu instead of the Fitbit, but really, there is no wrong way. It is amazing how technology has improved for tracking with each one, or even just your phone will track as well.  Now, if 10,000 steps a day seems too much, you can set a lower goal, especially if you are injured or recovering from an injury. 

Simple Ways To Get 10,000 Steps A Day:

 

Designate A Path in Your House- Having a path you can walk throughout your house helps when you realize at night that you are low on steps.  On days with a lot of computer work at home, I set timers to get up and move.  I walk a certain path in my house to keep moving and add more steps! 

Park At The Back Of The Lot-  Parking as far away from any door as you can is a sure-fire way to avoid those steps.  I mean, you already have to go to the store, just add more steps.  Every little bit adds up, and what better way than doing it while you are already doing other things. 

Use  The Bathroom Furthest From You– I generally will work downstairs in my house, and make myself go to the one upstairs, the furthest away from me. The steps are small, but it works out great to get you moving. Bonus: If you are in an office setting, you may meet new people along the way, too. 

Walk The Dog-  While I love the dog, some days it can be hard to get out to walk.  Make it a point to take the dog out at least once a day.  In my neighborhood, around the block gets me a half-mile.  Plus it gets the dog some exercise as well! 

Hunt Painted Rocks- This was new to us last summer, but it is still my kid’s favorite outside activity! They love to go to our parks and hunt for painted rocks, plus it also gets them exercise and helps to wear them out as well. Add in exercise for me, and it’s an even bigger win as well.  

Walk To An Errand– This may not happen every week, but pick errands you would drive to and walk there instead.  We live close to coffee shops, a drugstore, our water company, and a grocery store, so every time our water bill is due, I walk there.  Every two months, that’s 2 miles I get.  The small trips add up, and let’s face it, the fresh air does your body and mind good as well! 

Fitbit Challenges- These are fun to do with a Fitbit, and it is so much fun to do!! I have gotten up before and just walked because someone added 5,000 steps to them.  Talk about a get-moving reminder! 

 What do you do to hit 10,000 steps a day?? What motivates you??