Your Better Health Center

The Place for Healthy Living News

Walk Toward a Healthier You: 25 Ways to Increase Your Daily Steps

Walking is an easy way to become healthier. According to The Mayo Clinic, taking regular walks may help you lose weight, prevent heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and boost your mood. How to step it up:

  1. Take small, movement-filled breaks throughout the day.
  2. Take your dog for a stroll.
  3. Volunteer to walk dogs at your local animal shelter.
  4. Pace while you’re on the phone.
  5. Think of housecleaning as exercise.
  6. Whenever it's an option, take the stairs.
  7. Ask your company to provide you a treadmill desk.
  8. Always choose a parking spot far away from the door.
  9. Make it a practice to walk after every meal, even if it's only for 10 or 15 minutes.
  10. No matter where you’re going, take the longest on-foot route possible.
  11. Coach a kids' team.
  12. Get off your bus a stop or two early.
  13. Play with your kids or grandkids.
  14. Plan a walking date with your significant other.
  15. Walk in place during television commercials.
  16. Take up gardening.
  17. Take up photography and use it as an excuse to visit parks and other spots with great scenery.
  18. Hike. No matter what shape you’re in, hiking can adapt to fit your current condition.
  19. Act as “server,” filling other people’s coffee cups at the office.
  20. Buy a step counter to make walking more fun.
  21. Drink plenty of water. You won’t feel like moving if you’re dehydrated.
  22. Partner up with a friend and hold each other accountable.
  23. Get the kids involved.
  24.  Keep a journal.
  25. Celebrate your success.

Most humans begin walking around their first birthdays. There’s no reason to slow down now.