Are you looking to increase your daily step count and reach the coveted 10,000 steps per day milestone?
Whether you're aiming to improve your overall health, lose weight, or simply be more active, taking more steps each day is a fantastic way to achieve your goals. In this Wellness Article, we share effective tips to help you increase your average steps per day with the goal of eventually achieving 10,000 daily steps!
Plan Out Your Average Steps Per Day Goal:
Before you start walking more, we highly recommend you get ready to walk more by following these tips:
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Start Small & Gradually Increase: If you're currently not very active, jumping straight to 10,000 steps might seem overwhelming. Instead, start with a smaller goal, like 3,500 steps per day, and gradually increase it over time as you build up your strength and endurance. This allows your body to adjust to the increased activity levels without feeling overwhelmed or causing injury.
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Set Daily Challenges: With the idea of setting smaller goals in mind, challenge yourself to reach mini-milestones throughout the day. For example, aim to take 1,000 steps before lunchtime or complete a certain number of steps during your daily workout. Breaking down your goal into smaller, achievable targets can make it feel more manageable and keep you motivated.
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Identify A Weekly Step Goal: Like the daily step challenges, set a weekly goal to help you access your progress on a weekly basis. Aim for a realistic target that is slightly higher than your current activity level and last weeks average steps per day. This goal will help you gradually increase your steps over time as you become more accustomed to walking. It'll also feel good to achieve your daily and weekly goals; helping you feel accomplished.
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Use A Pedometer or Fitness Tracker: In order to know how many steps your taking daily, you'll need a tool to track your steps. Invest in a pedometer or fitness tracker to monitor your daily step count. Having a device that accurately tracks your steps can provide motivation and accountability. Here are 10 step trackers to consider!
- Track Your Progress: In addition to having a step counter, you may also want to journal your goals and achievements. This will help you visual and realized your progress. It will also help you review and reflect on your daily, weekly, and monthly average steps per day performance. Remember, it's the accumulation of small achieves that really lead to the biggest differences.
Now, Start Increasing Your Average Steps Per Day:
The key to increasing your average steps per day is looking for opportunities to incorporate walking into your daily routine. Here's some tips to make walking more routine:
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Take Short Walking Breaks: Incorporate short walks into your daily routine by taking regular breaks from sitting. Set a timer to remind yourself to get up and move every hour, even if it's just for a quick stroll around the office or your home. These short bursts of activity can add up quickly and contribute to your overall step count.
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Take The Stairs: Instead of taking the elevator or escalator while at the office, grocery store, airport, dental office, etc...opt for the stairs whenever possible. Climbing stairs is a great way to sneak in extra steps throughout your day and give your lower body a gentle workout. Start by taking the stairs for one or two flights and gradually increase the number over time.
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Park Farther Away: When running errands or commuting to work, park your car farther away from your destination. This forces you to walk a greater distance, adding more steps to your daily total. Plus, you'll often find less crowded parking spots, saving you time and frustration.
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Walk Instead Of Driving: Building on that last point, whenever possible, choose walking over driving for short trips. Whether it's running errands, commuting to work, or meeting up with friends, opt to walk instead of hopping in the car. Not only will you save on gas, but you'll also sneak in some extra steps.
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Incorporate Walking Meetings: Instead of sitting down for meetings, suggest walking meetings instead. Not only does this promote physical activity, but it can also boost creativity and productivity. Take advantage of parks or outdoor spaces for a scenic stroll while discussing business matters. Also, this same idea can be applied to friendly catch-up chats, as you can easily call a friend to reconnect while you take a short walk outside or around your home.
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Walk With A Friend Or Pet: Invite a friend, family member, or get a furry companion to join you for a walk. Not only does walking with a buddy make it more enjoyable, but it also provides accountability and motivation to stick to your walking routine.
- Explore Your Surroundings: Take advantage of your surroundings and explore new walking routes in your neighborhood or city. Visit local parks, nature trails, or scenic areas to make your walks more enjoyable and engaging. Window shopping is also a great way to explore your neighbourhood! Step outside and see what new items stores have in their windows, get inspired by displays, try a coffee from the local barista — so many things to see!
Incorporating these tips into your daily routine can help you increase your step count and progress towards 10,000 average steps per day. Remember, consistency is key, so make an effort to be active every day, even if it's just for a few minutes at a time. By making small changes to your daily routine, habits, and mindset, you can easily increase your step count and work towards achieving your fitness goals. So lace up those sneakers, step outside, and start moving towards a healthier, more active lifestyle today! And, if you need any help, reach out to us 💚
