Many of us wonder, “How many steps a day to lose weight?” It is true that walking is one of the most popular forms of exercise around the world. All comprehensive weight loss systems include exercise as one of their main components.
Of course, walking is commonly one of the forms of exercise that is recommended for those who are trying to lose weight. But what about the exact number of steps? Well, your starting number varies widely from person to person. It is based on your current activity level and then works up to the magic number of 10,000 steps per day.
Step #1) Knowing your Current Activity Level:
This is the first step you should take in determining how many steps a day to lose weight. So you should buy a pedometer and wear it for a few days, don’t walk more than you normally would. Keep track of your steps each day, and then calculate your average number of steps per day. This is not a test meant to judge your fitness level; this is only used to give you a starting point for your walking plan. Start with that number and try to add more steps every day.
Step #2) Set a Goal Number:
When deciding how many steps a day to lose weight, your goal should be to work up to 10,000 steps a day. If you’ve already taken 10,000 steps, try increasing the intensity of the steps you’re taking, this will allow your body to burn MORE calories. When you walk 10,000 steps remember that it is equivalent to a 30 minute or 5 mile exercise program. It is estimated that you will be able to burn between 300 and 400 calories per day by walking 10,000 and can expect to lose around 1 pound per week.
Tips to get started:
After learning how many steps a day to lose weight, you may be thinking that you can’t do that or that 10,000 is too many steps. There are some tips that can help you along your journey. Start slow and build yourself up, but keep to your regular routine. Skipping days or weeks will take you back to where you started. Buy some comfortable shoes to wear and keep your pace at a manageable level. To help combat the boredom you may feel on your walk, ask a friend to join you or bring your iPod, it will help time go by faster.
However, if you want to give your body the best HEALTH and optimize your weight loss dietA well balanced and nutritious diet plan SHOULD go hand in hand with your walking program. If you’re combining the two, weight loss won’t happen, especially at the rate it could if you had the right tools.