What is behind the growing popularity behind the 10,000 Steps a Day movement? Why 10,000 steps, and not some other number? Well as it turns out, 10,000 steps was chosen arbitrarily during a marketing campaign in Japan for the sale of a pedometer in 1965 because the Japanese translation sounded catchy. But as it turns out, 10,000 steps is a good approximation of adding an additional 30 minutes of exercise to an average adult’s day. We normally walk approximately 3000-5000 steps per day, and the additional steps equate to that extra daily exercise amount recommended to stay healthy and fit. Since walking is an easy way to add extra fitness to our day and the price of pedometers have come down dramatically, the movement has been growing in popularity.
So how do you get to 10,000 steps per day? When first starting out, most people can easily add an additional 2000-3000 steps to their day, but may need help getting in more steps. Once you get accustomed to taking time out for extra steps and make them a part of your daily routine, you will find it is easy to meet and even exceed 10,000 steps per day. Here are 11 reasons why you should take 10,000 steps (or more!) each and every day.
- You are already doing it, so it is easy to add extra steps to your daily routine
- It meets the daily recommended amount of exercise of 30 minutes for most adults
- It is an easy to remember and quantified goal
- Easier than remembering to hit the gym every day
- Does not take much additional time out of your day
- Can be combined with other activities, such as at work and home (see my upcoming article)
- Promotes weight loss
- Reduces chance of heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes
- Increases energy
- Promotes better sleep
- No special equipment or clothing needed
There are so many more reasons. So get walking! Stay tuned for an upcoming article where I give easy tips to reach your daily goal of 10,000 steps.
And if you’re looking for fun, unique and effective movement programs, visit: www.fitcorpglobal.com or contact us.
