Let’s face it, sticking to a routine can be tough. I fell off the radar with my morning walks. This was mostly because I tried to learn another fitness hobby. Skating. Now that I am able to roll, I have to get back to my walks. Walks are easier to start compared to rolling on skates where I need to drive form 10 kilometers to get a nice track.
As I laced up my shoes and started fresh, the lapse got me thinking – how important is routine really, especially when it comes to that coveted goal of 10,000 daily steps recommended by health professionals?
Last year, my fitbit starts indicated I averaged 11,000 a day. A good healthy achievement that I would like to repeat in the remaining three quarters of the year.
Is routine the key to unlock this task? Routines provide a sense of structure and stability. When it comes to fitness, a consistent routine helps build habits that make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a natural part of your day. Here is why:
- Consistency: Regular morning walks become a habit, making them easier to stick with. For some reason, my body adjusts to the early wake up routine, and crave for the pre-breakfast movement.
- Morning Motivation: The walk sets a positive tone. Boosts my mood, and energy for the day ahead and overall well-being.
- Reaching My Step Goal: A 45 minute walk gives an me average of 7,000 steps and it’s a great way to achieving the 10,000-step target in a day.
Today’s walk felt fantastic. The fresh air, the gentle exercise, and the quiet time to myself were a great way to start the day.
I hope to maintain the routine and have set a realistic goal to start with a shorter 30 minute walk and gradually increase the duration to 90 minutes in second month. It is good to plan your route and explore new safer paths in your neighborhood. I obviously have explored and know exactly what route to take and even how long it takes with the number of walk steps and distance expected to achieve.
Remember, even a small setback doesn’t have to derail your progress. Just lace up your shoes, step outside, and remember the amazing benefits – for your body and mind – that come with that daily dose of movement.