Twelve Ways to Walk More

You exercise your hips and knees so you can walk more, without pain or exhaustion. But doctors will also tell you that the best way to walk more is to…walk more. Here are twelve ideas to get you on your feet and moving.

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Walking Photo: iStock

7. For an evening’s diversion, do some outdoor window shopping. Strolling down a street of shops is great for peoplewatching, talking and just feeling alive.

8. Split your lunch hour into two— 30 minutes of eating and 30 minutes of walking. No one needs to eat for an hour. Chances are you’re just sitting and talking. Invite your lunch partner along for a relaxing stroll.

9. Find a park or a wilderness area near your home and commit to a nature walk a few times a week. Nothing lifts your soul as much as a good walk in the bush (or by the lake or even in the desert).

10. Locate the outdoor postbox closest to your home, and get into the habit of walking to it instead of driving the car to send off your bills or letters. Maybe it’ll motivate you to write more letters— wonderful for your hands, even better for your friends and family.

11. If you have little children in your life—be they yours, your grandchildren, nieces, nephews or even just your neighbours’ children—commit to the following every year: a trip to a sporting event, a trip to the circus, a trip to the zoo, a trip to the aquarium, a trip to the kids’ museum. Buy the tickets long in advance, and exercise in advance so you’re ready for a full day of fun.

12. Somehow, find a way to dance. Don’t wait for a dinner dance or a wedding. Turn on the stereo or plug in your portable listening device and dance at home. Join a square-dance group or take ballroom-dancing lessons.