Stay motivated

Starting a walking program takes effort. Sticking with it takes commitment. To stay motivated, try these tips:

• Set yourself up for success. Start with a simple goal you can reach, such as a short walk during a break. As walking becomes part of your routine, slowly build on your goal.
• Make it enjoyable. Walk with a friend or neighbor. Or join a health club or walking group. Take your dog. Listening to music may help, too.
• Change your routine. If you walk outdoors, plan many different routes. If you often walk in your neighborhood, try new routes or walk somewhere new, such as a city or state park. As you get used to walking more, add routes with hills or stairs. Or walk faster for a few minutes and then slow down for a few minutes, and then repeat the cycle.
• Take missed days in stride. If you skip some daily walks, don't give up. Remind yourself how good you feel when you include physical activity in your daily routine. Then get back to your routine when you can.

Once you take that first step, you're already headed in the right direction — better health.