The key to building any habit is to stick with the new behavior. Try these tips to help you stick with your walking routine:
- Walk in places you enjoy, like a park or shopping center. Try different places and routes to keep it interesting and to stay motivated.
- Listen to your favorite music as you walk, remembering to keep the volume low so you can hear sounds around you.
- Bring a friend or family member. Having a regular walking buddy may help keep you going—even when you would rather stay home. You can cheer each other on and serve as role models for friends, family members, and others.
- Have a “Plan B.” When bad weather or other roadblocks get in the way, be ready with options, like walking inside a mall rather than outdoors.
- Track your progress on paper, online, or with a fitness app for your phone or computer. Record dates, distance, and how you felt when you were done. Tools such as the Body Weight Planner can help you track your physical activity online. Devices such as pedometers and fitness trackers may help you count steps, calories, and how far you walk during a certain period of time.
- Reward yourself with something pleasant after your walk, like a relaxing shower or 30 minutes of time to yourself.
- Be prepared for setbacks. If you have a setback, go back to your walking routine again as soon as you can.
With time, walking will become part of your daily life and may even make it easier to try other types of physical activity.
