Over the last few years, wearable technology has become exceptionally popular. Many of us have Fitbits, Smartwatches, or other activity trackers. We use them to do a range of things, but the most popular uses for these accessories are to count your steps, monitor your activity, and track your exercise. We use them to work out how many calories we’re burning and how active we are throughout the day. Some of them even tell the time.
But, just buying a tracker won’t make you healthier. Ideally, you want to use it to set yourself fitness goals and targets and to monitor your progress. But, at the very least, you should be trying to hit that all-important 10000 steps.
Why is Your Step Count Important?
In truth, 10000 is just a number. The American Heart Association recommends 10000 steps for improved circulation and better cardiovascular health. But, it’s not a set in stone rule. If you are already doing 9000, but still feel sluggish, struggle with your weight, and have a hard time running for a bus, adding an extra 1000 steps won’t make much difference.
A gradual increase is far more important. But, why do step counts matter at all?
Taking more steps during your day means that you are sitting still for less, burning more calories, stretching your muscles, and making your heart work. All of this can help you build strength and stamina, improve your fitness, and help you avoid a range of health conditions.
But it’s not always easy. You might find taking more steps difficult, especially if you have a sit-down job. Here are some tips to help you.
Stop Eating at Your Desk
Most of us eat at our desks so we can get more done during lunch. But, this can typically mean that you are tired and lethargic and unable to work productively. Taking even a short walk at lunchtime can boost your energy levels, improving performance, and adding to your step count.
Find an Interesting Outdoor Hobby
Perhaps the most obvious outdoor hobbies which would add steps to your count are running and hiking. But, if you are looking for something different, golf, nature photography, and hunting can all add thousands of steps to your day. You could even look at hunting land if you wanted to take things more seriously.
Multitask on Walks
Going for a walk is the easiest way to add steps, but we don’t always have time or enjoy walking with nothing else to do. So, multitask. Listen to podcasts, plan your next day at work, even make notes on your phone or important calls. Remember, a walk doesn’t have to be just a walk.
Drink More Water
Drinking more water has so many positive effects on your health. But, it also means that you’ll need to walk to the bathroom more often, getting those steps in.
Competition
If you and your friends or colleagues are all trying to push your step count, a little competition could help.
Getting your steps in doesn’t need to be complicated. Start with a gradual increase, and build up slowly, one day at a time.
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