Think of stepping out?  Good idea.

So, let’s get physical.

I’ve noticed the popularity of the “10,000 steps a day” movement (10,000 steps is about 5 miles). Do you know what this is?

We are being encouraged in the name of improving our health and reducing the risk of disease to be aware of how many steps we take each day.

As you likely know, physical activity contributes to muscle, bone and joint health, helps us feel better and gives us more energy.

According to the Rand Corporation, every mile you cover, whether walking or running, saves society an average of 24 cents in medical and other costs!

It’s a fun practice, so here are a few tips:

  1. Take it one step at a time. Start at a level that is appropriate for you.
  2. Warm up with some dynamic joint mobility exercises. If you choose to stretch, do it afterwards.
  3. Wear reflective gear if you are out in the dark.
  4. Use a PEDOMETER—it’ll make the 10,000 step practice even more fun.

For years people have given me pedometers to use and I have never been impressed with them. They didn’t work and were too complicated. Recently my friend and fellow stepping enthusiast, Brian, showed me the one he was using and I was very impressed—easy and reliable.

I have gotten one and have given several as gifts (in fact, I’ve turned my 69-year-old aunt into a stepping maniac). If you want to know more about pedometers, e-
mail me.

Treat yourself to some technique lessons.

If you haven’t taken running/walking/yoga classes or workshops with me, join me for one or find a coach in your area. It’ll be well worth your while, I promise!

Here’s another step I’d like you to take!

I encourage you to put yourself on your own “to do” list.

Think about some of the topics we discuss here at  Activemenopauselifestyle.com blog and see what feels right to implement as you continue going through menopause and growing healthier.

Remember that your history does not determine your future.

Experience and feelings can be useful, so acknowledge them but don’t let them stop you from where you have decided to go.

There’s no such thing as a wrong step as long as it’s a step in the right direction!

shelli

Bookmark and Share
  • Share/Bookmark

One Response to “Walking Your Way to Muscle, Bone, and Joint Health”

  1. Writeany said on October 14th, 2011 at 1:18 pm:

    Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you can do with a few pics to drive the message home a bit, but instead of that, this is fantastic blog. A great read. I will certainly be back.

Leave a Reply