5 Ways to Kick-Start Your Daily Walking Routine
April 12, 2023 | Tags:
If you find that you’re struggling mentally and/or physically, you can help yourself by starting a walking program. Studies have shown that a daily walk can improve your physical and mental well-being and may even improve your memory. Walking doesn’t require any special equipment or skills. It improves your heart health, helps you maintain a healthy weight, boosts your mood and raises your mental awareness. An important part of maintaining a consistent routine is finding time in your schedule that works for you.
Whether at home or at work, there are many ways you can get your steps in and keep yourself accountable, such as:
1. Create a walking plan or step goal
A simple way to start a walking routine is to set a daily step goal. You can use a fitness app on your phone or a pedometer to track your steps and make sure you’re hitting your walking goal. This will help give you a baseline to accomplish each day!
2. Find a walking buddy
Trouble holding yourself accountable? Or would rather hang out with friends than make time for exercise? Make your walking plan more social by bringing along a friend or coworker! Use your walking time to catch up or just enjoy nature together.
3. Register for a local 5k or walk for a cause
Signing up for an event with a specific date can help you turn your intentions into an actionable goal with a deadline. Knowing you have a specific date you need to achieve your goals by can instill a better commitment to your exercise plan.
4. Split your walks into shorter sessions multiple times a day
Feeling like you don’t have enough time to get a solid walk in? Try splitting your walk into shorter sessions throughout the day – walk your dog in the morning, take a walk on your lunch break, walk your errands or even take a stroll around your workstation at least once every hour.
5. Make a plan to stay active year-round
Stick to your walking goals year-round by preparing yourself to handle walking during the winter months. Try walking indoors at a mall or recreation center, or outside with the appropriate clothing and shoes to provide warmth and prevent slipping.
Let's Get Started!
Now is the perfect time to start a walking program or recommit to a previous one. Even if your schedule has changed, you can still make time to walk. All you need is a decent pair of walking shoes and you can get started anytime, anywhere.
If you need inspiration or a great place to start, you can always visit the American Heart Association’s 12-Week Beginner’s Walking Plan.