I have written about how much I like my Fitbit before. I really believe it has made a huge difference in the amount of steps I walk each day. I guess I am competitive and there is just something about seeing how many steps I have (or have not) taken.
Fitbit automatically sets the goal to 10,000 steps a day (which you can adjust). 10,000 steps is what we should try to walk every day for general health. For me, walking 10,000 steps takes a conscious effort. In addition to one longer walk or hike per day, I have created quite a few new habits to reach my goal most days:
- Make multiple trips to the mailroom at work (and take the looooong way there and back)
- Take several short (15 - 20 minute) walking breaks throughout day – even though this takes time, I have found I am much more productive if I walk throughout the day
- Convince the kid to play soccer every night before dinner (we walk to the field, run around, and then walk home)
- Take advantage of “walking opportunities” – such as around the playground
When the party was over, hubby said to me, “Wow, what a difference when you don’t wear the Fitbit!” His statement made me think. I was actually very sore from yoga that day and a little rest felt good. However, I know he was right that I would have walked more had I worn the Fitbit as I don’t like looking at a very low number.
I’d like to think that my main motivation for walking is health and that it makes me feel good. But I think I am also motivated by seeing the numbers… In fact, I know I have increased my weekly steps by quite a bit since I got the Fitbit.
Questions: What was the highlight of your weekend? Do you have any “tricks” to motivate you to move more/exercise?
Be well,
Andrea
