Getting Into Shape The Smart Way

One of the smartest ways to get in shape is walking. Everybody knows how to walk and it doesn’t take specialized equipment or training, but it does help with weight loss, cholesterol levels, endurance, and muscle tone. Studies show that the average American takes 300 to 3,000 steps/day. To get into shape the smart way, you need to take more steps. The U.S. Surgeon General has determined that taking 10,000 steps/day will help improve overall health, especially weight loss. The average walker burns about 100 calories per mile, and 10,000 steps equals five miles. It does not matter whether you walk those steps indoors on a treadmill or outdoors on a scenic trail.

Ready? Begin by getting your walking shoes out and clipping on a pedometer to keep track of the number of steps you take. State-of-the-art equipment is nice but not mandatory. You can use your comfortable, well-fitted regular running or walking shoes as long as they give you stable footing. Simple pedometers or step counters can be found at discount, drug, or department stores. Start slowly and increase your steps as you get stronger and better conditioned – then stick with it and walk your way to fitness.