Walking is one of the best things you can do – not only for your heart rate, but for your feet too. It is safe compared to high-intensity sports, but often comes with the same benefits. So, you’ve strapped on your FitBit and made a lofty goal of getting in a certain number of steps every day. How do you get started? How do you incorporate walking activities into your day? We’ve compiled a few helpful and creative tips for sneaking in some extra steps throughout your day.

Trick yourself

• Park a long way away from where you’re headed. This will help you quickly find a parking spot, and also help you get a lot more steps!
• Find ways to “forget” to bring something to the other room or to an office meeting so you have to go back to your original point.

Find excuses to move

• If you work at a desk, it can be tough to find reasons to get up and walk around. One great way is to always take the steps instead of the elevator.
• Instead of picking up the phone and calling or emailing your coworker, trek over to their desk!
• Use a smaller cup so you have to walk back to the kitchen more frequently for refills. Water is great to stay hydrated too!
• Use a bathroom that’s further away, rather than the one right next to you. Bonus points if you walk up the stairs to another floor!

Take it seriously

• A pedometer or activity tracker app is a great tool to help monitor your goals. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just something that counts your steps throughout the day (unless you’re the kind of person who likes to count every single step you take!).
• Set attainable goals and keep yourself accountable. Use an exercise diary to write how you feel physically and emotionally when you get all your steps in each day.
• Get a buddy. Partners can help keep you motivated and make sure you’re staying on your goals.

Are you searching for ways to stay in shape and keep your feet and ankles healthy? Here at Feet First Foot Care Specialists, Dr. Adam Mucinskas can help answer any questions you might have about your feet and ankle health. We feature innovative treatments and state-of-the-art technologies at our conveniently located office in the Cromwell, Connecticut area. Please give us a call today to schedule an appointment at (860) 632-5499.