Walking for wellness
How can I stay motivated with a walking program?
One of the best ways to stay motivated to walk is to include others. Ask family members, friends, and co-workers to join you. Join a walking group or club, or walk a dog every day. Here is a list of other tips you can try:
- Buy a pedometer at a sporting goods store. A pedometer counts how many steps you take. The first time you wear it, count how many steps you normally take in a day. Wear your pedometer every day and set a goal for increasing that number of steps each day . Try to start with an increase of 2,000 steps a day and work toward 10,000.
- Get others to join you and set goals as a group.
- Fit a walk in wherever you can. Instead of watching TV or going out to eat, go out for a walk.
- If the weather is bad, take comfortable shoes to the mall and walk several laps inside.
- Walk to the grocery store, medical appointments, work, school, or shopping areas.
- Walk around your neighbourhood or around a park.
- Schedule walks on your daily calendar.
- Wear comfortable shoes and socks that cushion your feet.
- Drink plenty of water. Take a water bottle with you when you walk.
- Be safe and know your surroundings. Walk in a well-lighted, safe place. Carry a cell phone for emergencies.
- Plan family outings around walks together. Being physically active with kids sets an example they'll follow as they grow older.
- Set a goal to participate in an organized fitness walk.
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| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH Carrie Henley | Last Updated: August 15, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Christine Fordyce, MD - Family Practice/Geriatrics | |
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