I started focusing on my step count as a goal in a clinical trial. I set my goal at 20,000 steps daily. That seems reasonable. So I had some busy days that I did not hit the goal; in retrospect, I decided that, like many tasks and goals, looking at my step data by the week seemed more manageable.
Don’t get me wrong, I do track my daily steps. This is normally in the 22,000 to 24,000 step range each day. However, when traveling in the car, I might only reach 16,050 or so. Tracking helps me sustain this overall weekly goal and keep motivated. It also helps me see the trends of when I do my most and my least number steps. This can provide a stategy for maintaining my goal.
Honestly, I feel the best with getting approximately 24,000 steps. Many ask how do you do that?
Walking sets my schedule across each day.
Early morning begins with 2 miles on the tread mill to get me up and at them. While traveling, I use the hotel’s tread mills. An hour and a half later, I take a 3-mile loop in my neighborhood. Then two hours later, I do a 2+-mile loop. Just before lunch, I repeat the 3-mile loop. Around 4 p.m., I do two more miles and another 2+ miles after dinner.
Yes, it takes time management to make my goal. However, spread across the day, this habit of walking has provided me with the benefits of more energy, better balance, improved posture, less anxiety, and a positive mindset. I track this to remind myself of what I can do, what is in my power to do, and what I am doing for my health and my self.
MS Fortunate 