Are you struggling to meet your daily step goal? Let’s take a look at how to get 10,000 steps a day.
Did you know that Fitbit started the trend and recommended that people work towards getting 10,000 steps in a day? 10,000 steps equate to roughly 5 miles per day, and it is equivalent to 30 minutes of exercise a day. It also satisfies the CDC’s recommendation that people should get at least 30 minutes a day or 150 minutes per week. As a reminder, if you are just beginning you might not be able to handle getting in 10,000 steps a day. Instead, choose a lower number and work your way up to meet or even exceed this step goal. Plus, getting 10,000 steps a day is a great way to increase your physical activity and improve your health.
Here are some tips to help you achieve this goal.
Start with a Pedometer or Fitness Tracker
Tracking your steps is the first step to achieving your goal. Wear a pedometer or a fitness tracker to keep track of your steps throughout the day.
Take the Stairs
Instead of taking the elevator or escalator, take the stairs whenever possible. Climbing stairs is a great way to increase your step count and get your heart pumping.
Walk or Bike to Work
If possible, try walking or biking to work instead of driving. This can add several thousand steps to your daily count.
Take Walking Breaks
Take a 10-15 minute walk break every couple of hours during the day. This will not only help you reach your step goal but also improve your productivity and focus.
Park Farther Away
When you go to the store or other places, park farther away from the entrance to add more steps to your day.
Walk During Phone Calls
If you are on a long phone call, use the opportunity to walk around. This can help you stay active and focused during the call.
Use a Treadmill Desk
Work in an office, consider using a treadmill desk to stay active throughout the day while getting your work done.
Set Reminders
Set reminders throughout the day to encourage you to get up and move around. This can help you stay on track with your goal.
Schedule Walking Meetings
Instead of sitting in a conference room, schedule walking meetings with your colleagues to increase your daily steps while still getting work done.
Take a Walk After Dinner
Taking a 30-minute walk after dinner can help you burn extra calories and reach your daily step goal.
Join a Walking Group
Joining a walking group or club can help you stay motivated and accountable for reaching your daily step goal.
Run/Jog in Place
Try running or jogging in place. It is a great way to still get your workout in without sacrificing your step goal for the day. Do use a yoga mat or an indoor trampoline if you have hardwood floors in your home. Hardwood floors can be harsh on your joints, especially your knees.
Take your Dog for a Walk/Run
If you are a dog owner, grab your dog and go for a walk or run. It is a great way for both of you to get some exercise in and enjoy getting some fresh air.
Try a Fitness Class at Home
Try working out to your favorite Fitness DVDs, videos, or use a subscription service like Beat Box Fitness Workouts. Even if you can’t do everything the instructors can, participating can be fun and it will help you meet your step goal.
Use the Pokemon Go App
The Pokemon Go App is a great way to have fun while you are out walking especially if you live in a popular area. Enjoy Pokemon hunting while you get in a few extra steps. Do use caution if you are out walking outside after dark.
Video Games
There are a ton of video games on the market today that actually encourage movement. So if you are a bit short on meeting your daily step goal and you can’t get outside to exercise. Try a few of these games that encourage you to get up and move: Just Dance, Wii Resorts, Shaun White Snowboarding, Walk it Out, Wii Fit Plus, Punch Out, and many other fun games.
Jump Rope
You can easily use a jump rope in your home, outside, or on the go. It also doesn’t take up a ton of storage room in your home gym. It is a full body workout and it is a great way to sneak in a few extra steps so that you can meet your daily step goal.
Hip Hop Dancing
Hip hop dancing is a great way to burn some serious calories while meeting your daily step goal. Turn on the music and enjoy dancing. Don’t know where to start, try to pick up some hip-hop dancing DVDs.
Cleaning
Clean your house, catch up on laundry, and get those chores done. Not only will your house will be clean but you will sneak in some extra steps too.
Walk Every aisle at the Grocery Store
If you have plenty of time next time you head to the grocery store to restock, take the time and walk up and down each aisle even if you don’t need anything. This is a sneaky way to increase your step goal without even thinking about it.
Remember to start slowly and gradually increase your step count over time. Consistency is key, so make a plan and stick to it. Before you know it, you’ll be reaching 10,000 steps a day!
