It seems like everyone, from your next-door neighbor to your favorite celebrity, swears that walking is the simplest and easiest way to lose weight. They advise you to walk a certain number of steps each day, or walk to work, or do laps around the neighborhood after dinner. Whatever the exact advice might be, the idea is the same: You increase your activity level, burn calories, and gradually lose weight by doing something you’ve already been doing most of your life. Walking carries great appeal as an exercise form, because you don’t really have to learn anything new, and you can do it almost anywhere at any time.

But the downside of walking is that sometimes it gets boring. After a while, some people get tired of those laps around the mall or the same old landmarks outside. So how can you continue to exercise and lose weight the convenient way, without getting so burned out that you quit?

Invite a friend. Between work, other obligations, and now your new exercise routine, perhaps your social life has taken a back seat. Invite a friend to become your walking buddy, and catch up with them. You won’t believe how fast the time flies!

Try a new route. If you walk in  your neighborhood, vary the route. Or, you could even try driving to a different neighborhood. It might be fun to check out different architectural styles and gardens.

Visit a park. A state or national park might be too far away for your daily routine, but a weekend hike can break you out of your rut. Just remember to stay on marked trails, and stay in touch so that someone knows where you are.

Set goals (and rewards). Set weekly or monthly walking goals, and reward yourself when you reach them. Just avoid using food as a reward.

Incorporate an activity. If you’re counting steps with a fitness tracker, keep in mind that you can get those steps anywhere! Visit a museum, head to the zoo, or take the family shopping.

As always, come visit us for an appointment if you’re feeling frustrated with your fitness or weight loss plan. We can assess your methods, make recommendations for changes, and get you back on track toward your goals.