Walking is a great form of exercise. The activity is low-impact, which is often easier on joints than running, yet is a great way to increase heart rate and stay active. Walking also helps you achieve your weight loss goals. Wear a pedometer to track the number of steps taken in a day and to also measure the number of calories burned in a session.

There are ways to integrate more walking into your average day. Even if you have a hectic work schedule or busy lifestyle, these tips are easy ways to increase the number of steps taken to enjoy the benefits of walking and be healthy.

Take the Stairs

If you have the option at work or at your next appointment to take the elevator, opt for the stairs instead. Do the same if you live in a multi-leveled form of housing, such as an apartment building. Use the stairs both heading up and coming down the stairs. Use the bannisters if needed.

Stairs only take a few extra minutes, compared to time spent waiting for an elevator to arrive and its doors to open for you. The short burst of energy increases your heart rate and easily adds more steps to your day. Especially if there is more than one staircase involved.

Parking

Parking lots are locations you likely regularly encounter in your day that provide another opportunity to add in more steps. Park further away from the building you intend to visit than you would normally do. Even if closer spaces are available, avoid the temptation to park there.

You will take more steps both to and from your vehicle to the building. If that particular building is a grocery store, your bags act as weights you carry in your walking journey. Enjoy the added benefit of toning your arms while getting extra steps in, all while still going about your busy day.

Walking Clubs

Join a local walking club as a way to increase the number of steps you regularly take. Clubs differ in frequency of meetings; be realistic as to which club you have time to join. Some groups are the drop-in variety, while other groups require memberships. As well, some walking clubs charge participants fees.

To find a walking club that suits your needs, look for ads in local newspapers and on bulletin boards at recreation centers. As well, search the Internet using a search line that includes your city of residence and the term “walking group”. There will likely be many options to choose from, with sign up done on online or by telephone.

As well as acquiring more friendships, walking clubs will also increase the number of steps you take in a day. Enjoying fresh air is yet another benefit.

Animals

Spending time with your pets will not only keep you happy but also increase the number of steps you take in a day. If you normally take your dog for a walk around the block, try extending the time for the walk. Even five more minutes is better than no extra time at all.

A former neighbor of mine walked his cats; for cat owners that may be another option to give you more steps. If you enjoy bird watching, try walking local trails and you may find that you forget about the steps and instead focus on the fun activity.

Friends

Instead of the usual Starbucks get-together with your friend, why not suggest taking a walk instead? You had already planned the time in your day, so no extra time is needed. Catch up with each other during the walk instead of sitting stagnant at a table. You get exercise, socialize, and spend time outdoors.

If you still crave the caffeine fix from Starbucks, head there after the walk. It can be a sweet reward for incorporating extra steps into your day!

Adding steps to your busy day does not have to be a difficult feat. Take the stairs more often and park farther away from buildings. Incorporate walks into your visits with friends and your time with your pets. Walking clubs are another great way to increase number of steps taken. Be active and be healthy!

Photo Source:

Stock.xchnge  http://www.sxc.hu/photo/998875  Graham Kingsley