Do you use your watch or phone to count your steps?

Two recent studies suggest the sweet spot for longevity lies around 7,000 to 8,000 daily steps or about 30 to 45 minutes of exercise most days. It's a great reminder that walking doesn't only help with back pain but also increases our overall health.

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/15/well/move/exercise-daily-steps-recommended.html

Healthy living doesn't have to be complicated. There are lots of great, easy ways to be active that don't involve classes, going to the gym or special equipment. Walking, shopping, gardening, playing, work around the house - these are just a few examples of how you can build healthy activities into your daily routine.

Tips to adding more steps to your day:

• For short trips, leave the car at home and walk instead. With Langley traffic, you might be surprised when you save time walking.

• Park farther away rather than looking for the closest spot.

• Walk some or all of the way to work. Walk the kids to school. Get off the bus a stop early and walk the rest of the way.

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Go for a walking lunch break or have a walking meeting.

• Use the 'green gym' - parks and green spaces where you live.

• Walk the dog instead of letting it out in the back yard.

• Put away the remote control or phone and get up to change the TV channel.

• Use your arms when you walk. They dictate your pace and rhythm. If you consciously think about pumping your arms, your legs will follow a little faster.

• Tired, stiff and sore from your labor intensive job? A short walk can actually help boost your energy and relieve muscle tension.

• Spread your walking throughout the day if you feel like you don't have time - 10 mins in the morning, 10 mins mid day, 10 mins in the afternoon.

• Walk around the house while brushing your teeth.

• Schedule a family walk.

Sometimes thinking about other peoples health is more motivating than taking care of ourselves. Do you have a tip for getting more steps into your day? Let us know!

If pain is preventing you from getting in the movement your body needs, book in to see Dr. Robin or Dr. Jody so that you can get that step count back up.