Can’t Get Your Daily Steps? Here Are Some Simple Tricks To Walk 10000 Steps Everyday

Monday, February 27, 2023, 21:05

Let us get into it straight - walking is simply a mode of movement, and movement requires energy (calories).

Although we all know that moving more is generally beneficial for your health, it is not always feasible to squeeze in additional steps. Perhaps your town does not have a lot of sidewalks or you are desk-bound most of the day. Perhaps you do not have the energy for additional walking [1][2].

Worry not, we are here to help you out.

Is 10,000 Steps A Day Really Necessary?

Most of us have heard the standard recommendation to get 10,000 steps a day, or about five miles. This advice has been around for decades, but where does it originate?

It turns out that this common guideline originated in 1965 when a Japanese company developed a device dubbed Manpo-kei, which translates to "10,000 steps meter" [2].

10,000 was intended as a marketing tool, and today it is commonly used as the default goal for wearable devices and smartphones.

In spite of marketing tactics, 10,000 steps remains a good goal to strive for. This is not a universal goal, but moving more will result in a number of benefits.

How To Get 10,000 Steps A Day?

You should begin by determining your current level of movement before setting an appropriate step goal. To do this, use a tracker - such as an old-fashioned pedometer, smartphone app, or other smart devices - to record your steps for two weekdays and one weekend without changing your routine [3][4].

Once you are aware of your starting point, incrementally increase your steps from there. For example, if you start the week with 2,000 steps, aim for 4,000 the next week, 7,000 the week after, and 10,000 the week after.

Tips For Getting More Steps Into Your Daily Fitness Routine

1. Every hour, walk 1,000 steps

It should take approximately 10 minutes, and during an average workday, you will accomplish more than 9,000 steps.

2. Walk your pet

You will never get out of the house faster than a puppy that needs to do some business. You will also be required to walk for a longer period of time than usual.

3. Take the stairs

You can track steps and flights wherever you are. No matter where you are if you wear a fitness tracker, you will be able to track both.

4. Take a moving break

Try taking a 15-minute walk around the block during your lunch break. You will not only get your steps in, but you may also feel more focused at work as a result [5].

5. Don't park too close

If you commute by car, park at the back of the lot to get some extra steps in.

6. Get off the bus or train a stop or two early

The double benefit is that you will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and benefit your health at the same time.

7. Talk as you walk

Take advantage of any phone calls you receive to get your steps in.

8. Go on a walking date

There is something very romantic about taking a stroll with your partner, especially at sunset. Not only does it benefit your physical health, but it also enhances your mental health [6].

9. Set a challenging goal

Experts suggest setting challenges throughout your daily routine. For example, while your tea/coffee is boiling, see how many steps you can complete around your kitchen or living area.

10. Use a step tracker

When you use a step tracker regularly, you can hold yourself accountable. For instance, finding out that you have not covered 1,000 steps and it is already 5 p.m. might motivate you to take a walk around the block.

On A Final Note...

Walking regularly can help reduce the incidence of heart disease, it is also associated with better self-ratings of health and BMI, and it can also have a positive impact on quality of life, anxiety, and depression.

So, get your steps on!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.