How To Walk For Fitness

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Written by Iowa State Extension and Outreach | Illustration by Jenny Witte

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Frequency Is Important

Adults should have at least 150 minutes to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity each week, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Brisk walking for 30 minutes, at least five days a week, is one way to meet the goal. 

Tight On Time? 

Break up your activity into shorter sessions.

  • In the morning, park or get off the bus or train about 10 minutes away from your job.
  • At lunch, walk for 10 minutes around where you work, indoors or outdoors.
  • At the end of the day, walk briskly for 10 minutes back to your car

 Tips To Get You Up and Walking 

  • Early Riser: Before you go to bed, get your walking clothes and shoes ready, so it’s easy to put them on quickly to start walking. Wear reflective clothing or carry a light, if still dark. 
  • Lunchtime Break: Schedule your lunchtime walk in your work calendar. Keep everything you need for walking at work.
  • Happy Hour: Have a light snack about an hour or two before you leave so you don’t experience an energy dip and talk yourself out of walking.

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