Have you started a walking routine? We’ve already chatted about how important walking is for weight loss – click here if you missed this! Exercise isn’t absolutely necessary for weight loss on the WeightMatters programme, but I do highly recommend that my members increase their activity. Walking is a great way to burn more calories and takes a lot less determination than starting a full-on gym routine! But we must create a habit of walking or else after a few days, this new routine may fizzle out. Just how can we create a daily walking habit?
1. Try to walk at the same time each day – create a walking habit
A lot of people like to walk after work. After a busy day it can be great to shut off from work by getting out in the fresh air and walking away any of the days stress. It means you can start the rest of your evening in a better mood.
Others like to walk after dinner. Taking a gentle walk after dinner can be really good for helping digestion.
Others like to get out first thing in the morning before they start their day. This is certainly a way to start the day “right”. Doing one good habit like this in the morning is a sure way to make sure you continue on the right foot for the rest of the day.
Whichever is best for you, maybe try to stick to that time as it is easier to create a habit of it as it slides effortlessly into your daily routine.
2. Get steps in wherever you can
Maybe you don’t have time each day for a 30 minute walk (or maybe you do but you’d still like to keep up your activity throughout the day). There are so many ways to gain extra steps and walk throughout the day.
- Park at the opposite side of the carpark to the entrance to the supermarket – this can clock you up 200 – 500 steps!
- Always take the stairs! This is a little one but did you know walking up stairs is incredible for your cardiovascular health?
- On your lunch break, go for a 5 – 10 minute walk. Not only is it good to get away from work for a bit, a 5 minute walk can clock you up 500 – 1000 steps!
- Take public transport where you can. Not only are fuel prices sky high, public transport can save a few euros but it generally involves a short walk to and from the station!
- If you’re running some errands in town, park in one spot and walk to each location instead of driving everywhere. This can help you add a few thousand steps to your daily count!
3. Aim for 30 minutes
Remember to aim for 30 minutes walking if you can. Doing this 5 days per week is the recommended amount. It doesn’t have to be done in one slot. If you have a busy schedule, maybe you can fit in 2x 15 minute strolls each day – whatever is the most manageable for you!
4. Keep count – walking routine
Having a step counter/ Fitbit can be a great motivator when it comes to walking. You may be able to add friends and families so that you can compare your daily steps or even just monitor your own. Samsung phones even have a health app free which counts steps, just make sure to have your phone in hand on your walk. It is so rewarding to see your high step count at the end of each day!
5. Finally, join a walking group
You may be able to join a physical walking group or even an online one. The WM walking group is coming soon. It will be a great way to motivate yourself to get the runners on you, so stay tuned for that!
Is walking good for weight loss? – Walking Routine
Absolutely, check out my previous walking for weight loss post!
About WeightMatters
I hope you find this post helpful and that you may take something away from it. WeightMatters is all about educating you to make the right lifestyle choices to create a healthier and happier you – both physically and mentally. I have helped so many people reach their weight loss goal and I’d love to help you too. To learn more about the my remote weight loss programme click here, and be sure to take a look at some before and afters and member feedback. For extra tips and tricks, be sure to follow on Instagram and Facebook