I know...I know...you’ve heard over and over about the importance of getting 10,000 steps each day, but why is it important? As a matter of fact, where did the magical number 10,000 come from? Did a group of people simply put numbers in a hat and blindly make a choice? As I contemplated this question, I thought about a few more questions related to this topic...What if we don't walk the recommended 10,000 steps? Why is it more important as we get older? What can we do to help reach our daily and weekly stepping and walking goals? In this article, I’ll answer these questions and try to offer some helpful tips to guide you on your journey toward a more healthier...you.
So, who determined the10,000 steps a day guideline? After much research, it was determined that 10,000 steps a day is the popular goal. Some research has shown, coupled with other healthy behaviors, it can lead to a decrease in chronic illness like diabetes, metabolic syndromes and heart disease (usatoday). Michael Roizen, a physician and chief wellness officer at Cleveland Clinic said, "If you look at it, if everyone did just 10,000 steps a day in America we would probably decrease healthcare budget by $500 billion a year and that shows how few people actually do it, and two how big a reduction in chronic disease we’d have if more did."
Further research suggest the the claim that this magical number of 10,000 steps is just what it is...a guideline. In fact, the Centers for Disease and Control doesn't specifically recommend 10,000 steps a day but it does suggest people get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week (30 minutes a day) coupled with two or more days of muscle-strengthening activity.
My next question is, why is this important as we get older? HelpGuide determined, working out as we mature is important for many reasons. It is important for physical health benefits such as maintaining weight or even weight loss, People who exercise tend to have improved immune and digestive functioning, better blood pressure and bone density, and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, and certain cancers. It is also important for mental health benefits such as, improving sleep, boost self confidence and overall improve brain function.
So, what can we do each day to...trick...yes...I said...trick...our minds into doing things that will keep us active? There are a few basic recommendations that we can do each day. Things like walking whenever you can. If we find ourselves sitting a lot, stand up. We can walk around our homes while tracking steps with a tracking device. Another way is by following a guided video and having fun in the process. In my video, I will help you walk 1000 steps in only 8 minutes...in the privacy of your own home. This video is fun, gets your heart pumping, you can dance/walk at your own pace. In the beginning, try doing the routine 2 times per week and gradually work up to several times per week.
Don't forget to subscribe for more fashion and wellness tips for mature women like "us." Check out the video here for my fun, easy to follow, step or dance routine that will trick you into working out while having fun!