There are many exercise options out there, but the easiest and one of the best is right outside your front door. No gym membership or special equipment is needed, because one of the easiest exercise options we have is walking. 

When we switch over from daylight saving time and it is lighter in the morning, it’s tough because I’m not a morning person, but I try to reverse my schedule from walking after work to walking before I go to the office.  I also make sure to walk on the weekends.  Sometimes it’s hard to get motivated, but my 3 big dogs keep me honest!   

Research shows that walking several times a week for at least 30 minutes helps increase memory, lower blood pressure, assist in bone strength and helps regulate blood sugar.  People are now being encouraged to walk 10,000 steps per day. Reaching a goal of walking 10,000 steps can be challenging but not that difficult, it just takes that first step.  Recently at the ANI in Opryland, I easily did my 10,000 a day but Dani did over 20,000 a day!

Walking outdoors offers the enjoyment of the natural scenery which is so beautiful and daily walking is far from routine.  I enjoy the change of seasons and each day the streets I travel take on different looks.  There are Halloween decorations up now which soon will change to Christmas lights and yard decorations.  I watch to see which new homes are on the market, who is renovating, moving or adding a pool or landscaping.  I’ve even found some treasures from my neighbor’s cast asides (sshh, it’s a secret).    

So with the goal to walk 10,000 steps, here are some reasons to reinforce walking:

• Walking is a low impact, effective way to lose weight
• Walking helps to reduce blood pressure, reduce the risks of heart disease and stroke
• Walking improves cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness
• Walking increases muscle strength, helps create stronger bones, improves balance and increases endurance
• Walking doesn't have to be either vigorous or prolonged in order to produce benefits., provided it's sprinkled throughout your day and consistent
• You're never too old to walk

I hope you join me in reaching the goal of 10,000 steps a day!