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Walk more, feel betterWhy one of the simplest forms of movement is surprisingly powerful.
YOUR WALK COUNTSYou don’t need 10,000 steps for walking to matterThe famous 10,000-step goal actually originated with a Japanese pedometer campaign in the 1960s, not as a scientifically established minimum. Research since then has found benefits across different step counts, with more daily movement generally associated with better health. Take the stairs. Walk during a phone call. Take a lap on your break. Park a little farther away. Walk after dinner.
Walking is a reset button Sometimes your brain needs movement, not another screen.Walking gives the body a break from prolonged sitting and can create a natural transition between mentally demanding moments. Even short movement breaks throughout the day can help increase total daily activity.Try This On Your Next WalkPut the phone away. Look at something far in the distance. Notice your surroundings. Let your arms swing naturally. Take a few slow breaths.For crisis-line staff, I especially like the idea of positioning a walk as a transition between demanding moments, rather than implying it should somehow erase the emotional impact of difficult calls.
Your Workout Isn’t the whole storyYou can exercise every day and still need more movementA workout is great for your health, but what happens during the other 23+ hours of the day matters too. Research links higher amounts of sedentary time with poorer health outcomes, which is why health guidelines recommend not only exercising, but also sitting less and moving more throughout the day. Even replacing some sitting with light activity can provide benefits. This is especially relevant for desk-based work. A trip to the gym doesn't make everyday movement unnecessary.🏋 EXERCISE Strength training • Running • Fitness classes Important. + 🚶 DAILY MOVEMENT Walking • Taking the stairs • Pacing during calls with friends/family • Movement breaks Also important. = A MORE ACTIVE DAY Don't just think “Did I work out today?” Think “How much did I move today?”
Ready to get moving?It’s your turn! Our next wellness challenge is all about adding more walking and movement into your week—your way. 🚶 Check out the Walking Challenge Choose your path. Get moving. See where your steps take you.Moments of Wellness CONTACT Care LineWant to learn more?This mini wellness guide was inspired by the podcast episode “Science-Backed Benefits of Walking for Fat Loss, Hormones, and Longevity.” Listen or watch the full episode: Watch on YouTube Small steps add up. So, where will yours take you?