Having trouble reaching the recommended 10,000 steps per day? It?s easy to rack ?em up (especially with the help of a pedometer) if you add just 10 to 20 percent more steps each week. Try these simple tips from walking expert Mark Fenton, author of Pedometer Walking—and you?ll burn more calories without ever setting foot in the gym.
1. Add short walks whenever you can. Park your car a block away, get off the subway or bus a stop early, walk to the next post office drop box, or take a lap around the park on the way home. 600 steps per 5 minutes
2. Buy a new or used treadmill and vow to only watch TV while you walk. (One episode of House, and your numbers will really soar.) 7,800 steps per hour
3. Join an active group. Meet with fellow dog owners to walk your mutts, or link up with a local running or hiking group. (Need help? Visit Health.com/girlsgottamove.) 7,800 steps per hour
4. Take an extra lap around the mall before you shop. (Bonus: You?ll get to scout all the best sales.) 1,200 steps per 10 minutes
5. Be an active volunteer. Become a guide at your local art museum or at the zoo, or start taking part in your neighborhood watch. 4,000 to 6,000 steps per hour
