Small Ways to Help You Increase Your Step Count During the Day

These Microsteps will help you stay active without even thinking about it.

Finding time for a formal workout isn’t always easy, but you can still reap the benefits of regular movement just by increasing your step count throughout the day.

Even small increases in daily step counts are associated with significant health benefits. For example, research has shown that depending on your age, walking 6000 to 8000 steps per day can reduce the risk of premature death, and smaller increases in step count can also offer protective effects​.

And while you may have heard that you need 10,000 steps a day to stay healthy, that number is actually made up from a decades-old marketing campaign; experts say step count benefits level off at around 7,500 steps, and in fact, any increase in movement can be beneficial.

If you’re looking for small ways to increase your step count during the day, try these Microsteps:

Pick one meeting on your calendar to turn into a walking meeting.

Taking a walk during a 30-minute call can add up to over 3,000 steps. Plus, light movement has been shown to boost our energy levels, creativity, and focus.

Park at the outer edge of the parking lot.

Whether you’re pulling up to the grocery store or your office, parking farther away from the entrance will allow you to integrate more movement into your day without thinking about it.

Take a walk after dinner.

It can help with digestion and allow you to get some fresh air before bedtime. Invite your partner to come with you, or use the time to listen to a podcast or call a friend to catch up.

Set a reminder on your phone to walk for 5 minutes in between meetings.

Simply walking up and down the hallway at work or around your driveway at home can be a great way to mentally reset and stay moving during a busy day.

Invite a friend to take a walk around a new-to-you area or local trail.

It’s a great way to catch up and connect while getting in some steps. Plus, you’ll be able to explore a new place, which can spark curiosity and joy.

Make a walking playlist and use it as a walking timer.

For example, if the playlist is 36 minutes long, challenge yourself to keep walking until the last song ends! It’s a great way to get in more steps while making it fun.

If you get a phone call, walk around while you talk.

Whether you’re walking around the block or your home, taking your phone calls while getting some steps in is an easy way to move more without forcing it.