One of the most important things you can do to prevent many health risks, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, is exercise. Many times it is hard to find the time to get everything done. Adding exercise to your to do list can be daunting at times; however, one simple way to incorporate exercise is walking. Did you know that walking briskly for 2 hours and 30 minutes each week-easily broken up into five 30-minute walks-can actually get you the physical activity you need to help you stay healthy and prevent disease? (CDC, 2016).
One way to track how much you walk is through counting your steps. The average American only walks about 3,000-4,000 steps a day, while the recommended amount of steps are 10,000 (Mayo Clinic). Today there are many forms to track your steps, even a simple pedometer will do the trick! Here are some tips to help you get in all your steps for the day:
- Instead of fighting for that perfect parking spot; save yourself the hassle by parking further away and walking.
- Take a walking lunch break. Keep a pair of tennis shoes in your office, and on your break get your co-worker and walk around the office.
- Involve the family. In the afternoon instead of sitting down to watch a movie, go on a walk. Rexburg offers some great parks with walking paths like; Smith, Porter, or Nature Park.
- Walk while you wait. If you are attending your child’s sporting event, instead of sitting and watching, walk around the field to cheer them on.
- Take the stairs. Instead of waiting for the elevator, get your extra steps in for the day by take the stairs.
These small and simple changes can make a positive impact on your health. Walking is a convenient form of exercise, as no gym-membership or expensive equipment is needed.