Sponsored feature: Walking for Health – Join us in WSPhysio 10,000 Step challenge for the next 30 days

Walking can be one of the easiest and most accessible forms of exercise and often forgotten.

If you’re looking to increase your steps join us in a 30-day 10k step challenge.

Before you get started a few tips to make the process easier:

1 Footwear – pick a shoe or trainer that’s comfortable, ideally with good arch support.

2 Walking in Autumn/Winter – you may need suitable waterproof clothing and anti-slip footwear for the more challenging routes. A torch can come in handy as it is getting darker.

3 Safety – if you don’t feel comfortable walking outside alone try to plan your walks with friends or family or use an indoor treadmill. Alternatively, there are many walking groups out there for support.

How to achieve your 10,000 steps a day for the next 30 days:

1 Start small.

Break your walking periods up into short 15-30minutes. Try to wake 30minutes earlier in the Morning for a short walk whether this is on the treadmill or outside.

2 Make it a habit

Try to think of ways you can increase steps easily throughout the day. Like walking to the shop, to work, or walking to take the kids to school.

3 Listen to music

A good playlist can take your mind off the effort and make the whole experience more enjoyable. Keep the volume low so you can remain aware of your surroundings.

4 Set reminders

Using technology to help you, set a reminder on your phone, or using a smart watch to remind you when you need to get up from your desk or if you’ve been sedentary for too long.

How do I know if I am walking fast enough?

Ideally you want to choose a pace that is comfortable for you to maintain. The NHS supports the ACTIVE 10 app which will tell you if you are walking briskly enough. You need to aim for a brisk enough walk that you could still maintain a conversation with a Friend. If you are unable to talk when walking, you are walking too fast.

Ultimately, you need to enjoy the exercise method you choose. Moving your body is key. If you only achieve 5,000 steps a day, start small and build that up to 7,000.

Our Physio’s are always here to help and support you on your health journey. Contact us to find out more information 01284 713721 / www.westsuffolkphysio.co.uk / wsphysio@wsh.nhs.uk