Walking has the highest compliance rate of any exercise. But you’ll need to take the right number of steps each day to reap the maximum health benefits. What’s the magic number?
Walk This Way
When you’ve taken at least 10,000 steps today -- a pedometer can help you keep count -- you’ll have walked the optimal amount for good health. (And here are five ways those steps will make you look and feel better.) Or set your stopwatch, and don’t stop until you’ve accumulated 30 minutes -- all at once, or broken up into 10-minute chunks.
Why It’s So Good
Walking is a great place to start when you’re trying to get back into shape. It lays the foundation for all other exercise. Along with increasing your stamina, it prepares your body for strength training, too. (When you’re ready, try these muscle builders from the RealAge 20-Minute Workout.)
Tips and Tricks
Walk better with these booster tips:
- Find an online walking buddy to whom you report your total steps each day. (Check out our Community Message Board to find someone who shares your goals.)
- Boost your walking output and engage your mind by listening to the YOU: On a Diet audiobook while you walk.
- Get a dog, or offer to walk your friend’s pooch. Here’s how it will help.
- Challenge yourself with hilly or sandy terrain.
- Chant "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can . . ." Here’s why.
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RealAge Benefit: A physical activity program that builds stamina, strength, and flexibility can make your RealAge as much as 8.1 years younger.
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