Holiday Health Strides

Do you ever wonder how many steps you take in a day? Many experts tell us we should log at least 10,000. 10,000 steps seem like a lot, but are they? Well strap on a pedometer and you will realize it’s easier than it sounds. In addition to being both easy and fun, a pedometer creates a goal!

I had never worn a pedometer until recently and found that in a normal day of staring into the computer, I still walked 7000 - 8000 steps. I realized that knowing I had a device on my hip measuring my steps made me walk more. I adopted the “long route,” taking the long way to the lunch room, long way to a meeting, and paced in my office while on a conference call. The conscious extras added up. They increased my daily number of steps and made me start to think about how I could gain more.

With benefits of walking offering first-rate effects and positive results, almost no one can dispute its excellence as a way to keep fit. When you’re walking, your heart rate rises, your head clears, and your energy returns. Even a few five minute walks in your normal day add up - just check the pedometer!

Walking is a social and inclusive activity. At my last job I adopted the pastime of walking. Walking meetings would often occur and everyone tended to always “walk” away feeling as though more meaningful work was accomplished. Friends, varying in fitness levels can walk together as a common activity. Your dog, cat or armadillo also appreciates a walk, make that many, (if possible of course.)

Kids like walks…not! At least all of the kids I know, which creates a challenge when trying to motivate them to partake in a family hike. With that said, at the next friends and family gathering I am going to strap pedometers on them and see who can get the most steps. Everyone over 3000 gets a prize and a grateful body.

Lastly, a forgotten bonus, walking gets the shopping done. How many steps does it take you to do the grocery shopping? How many steps will you take to cover the holidays? Purchase everything online you say? That’s ok, just take a 10 minute walk after every purchase. If the cold outside is a deterrent, pace in the house. Your neighbors will think you are neurotic, but you will reach your goal of 10,000 steps and 10,000 steps a day will lead you to a healthier and happier holiday season.

Happy Holidays from Bell Fitness

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