Fitness Nutrition Forums

5 Tricks to Boost Your Daily Step Count

Step up your game!

You may have a step tracker or be interested in getting one. And the first that you notice when you start counting your steps is how many you aren’t taking. It’s recommended that you get in 10,000 steps each day which equates to around five miles. For most people, the average day requires less than half of that number. Which is why it can seem daunting to suddenly have even time to walk five miles. The good news is that you don’t have to get all your steps done at once. You just have to think a little more creatively about new ways to go the distance that get some steps in.

1. For many people, a daily commute doesn’t offer much opportunity for walking. If you can, try using public transportation. You’ll get in some steps walking to and from bus stops and transit stations. If you have to drive, try parking in the furthest spot from the office.

2. Whenever possible, park far away. Grocery shopping, movie theaters, wherever you go, stop trying to get as close as possible. Instead, drive further and walk in.

3. At the office, find ways to walk more by doing things like using the bathroom on another floor or further away and getting up to talk with your coworkers rather than sending questions via email or chat features.

4. Never stand still. Anytime you find yourself standing, pace in place. At the grocery, waiting for a movie, at the DMV, walk in place to get your steps in.

5. Walk and talk. Cell phones are mobile, so anytime you get a call, take the opportunity to take a walk, even around your living room. You can also try convincing the office to do walk meetings and be sure to walk on your lunch break—even if it’s to go to lunch nearby.

By rethinking your day you can find ways to get all your steps in without finding extra time.

[Image via Shutterstock]

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