Have you wanted to try implementing 10,000 steps into your daily routine?! Some of us from Team LIY got up & moving to test out how we felt after walking 10,000 steps each day. Keep on reading, because we are sharing our thoughts on it all as well as what has helped us along the way!
It could be easy to brush off walking as an activity that isn’t “intense” enough to see true benefits, but it is actually one the THE best things you can do for your body and mind! It’s easy on the joints and best of all?! It’s free! No equipment needed! You can do it anywhere, anytime. Whether you want to listen to the sounds of nature, catch up with an old friend, crank up the tunes, or enjoy a romantic evening stroll with your hubby – we hope our experiences inspire you to put one foot in front of the other! 
p.s. see more of our workout routines here or our thoughts on the 12-3-30 workout here!
Cassidy
Biggest changes you noticed? Less anxiety and more connection with my husband! Extra bonuses: One entertained baby and two tired pups!
What helped you walk 10K steps a day? Everyday after work, we make it a priority to go on a family walk for about an hour [sometimes longer, sometimes shorter!]. We try to go even when we don’t feel like it and even when it’s not all that convenient because it is so beneficial for all of us. My husband and I joke that the foundation of our relationship is held up by long walks! We use this time to connect, talk, plan, and even hash things out [makes a great neutral and calm setting]. We’ve been walking with our two pups for quite some time, and we love using these harnesses with this double leash – it never tangles! Wearing them out keeps those zoomies at bay! We recently had a baby girl [I say recently but it was almost a year ago!] and now we have her all in on the family walks. She LOVES it. It seems to calm her down before bedtime and we love getting her outside as much as possible! We have the Chicco Corso LE Stroller and we have really liked it so far – it’s compact but can also withstand long walks on some bumpy roads!
Will you continue doing it? Absolutely – And I encourage you to try it with your family, spouse or even a friend!
Jen
Biggest changes you noticed? More energy throughout the day + tighter thighs and butt!
What helped you walk 10K steps a day? Standing desk, walking pad, apple watch, sneakers
Will you continue doing it? 100% yes! I love the way I feel after completing my steps!
Katy
Biggest changes you noticed? I’ve been on the 10,000 steps a day train for quite a few years now and will never go back! Of course, there are some days it isn’t in cards, but almost everyday it is a part of my daily goal and I just feel so much better! Not only does it help get the blood pumping but I feel like it clears my mind, helps me feel better physically, and is an easy way to stay active!
What helped you walk 10K steps a day? Biggest tip for getting your steps in? Having a dog that needs lots of walks 
Everyday no matter the weather our Frisco man needs minimum two walks a day, so that keeps you honest with getting moving when you don’t truly want to! My other biggest tip personally is having some sort of fitness tracker. I use the Oura Ring, but have previously used other trackers and notice SUCH a difference if I actually know how many steps I have or haven’t gotten through out the day! Another tip: call a friend, have a podcast, music, or something fun that you’re excited to listen to on your walks! It may even keep you walking longer than you originally planned!
Will you continue doing it? As mentioned above, I never plan to leave 10,000 steps behind as a part of my daily routine. I love how I feel moving my body and highly recommend starting on your own journey – even if it’s just bumping up 1,000 steps from what you’re doing now. Work your way up slowly and you’ll be amazed at what you can do!
Devon
Biggest changes you noticed? The more I move my body, I noticed I don’t have that mid-afternoon slump. If I start to feel my energy drain, I go for a short walk outside or on my treadmill. I try to also go for a quick walk after eating meals to help blood sugar control and digestion. It’s not always possible, but when I do I notice a difference in how I feel!
I also noticed a positive change in relationships. My husband and I try to prioritize walks together. This is a time where we can have uninterrupted conversations together. Walking in general is great for my mental health. And when I walk with others, I am building stronger connections [friends, husband, children, etc.].
What helped you walk 10K steps a day? Having a treadmill by my workspace, good walking/running shoes, and accountability [grab a partner and start a challenge]!
Will you continue doing it? Absolutely. I have only noticed positive changes. It’s hard to make the time to get steps in. Parking farther away, taking 10 minute breaks throughout the day to move, and walking with friends all help to hit the mark!
