Young woman walking on a path.
Young woman walking in a field

1 TRAVEL ON FOOT

Is walking good for you? The answer is a resounding yes. On your next vacation, lace up your shoes and turn off your phone. While you’re discovering hidden cafes, street art and scenery, you’ll be getting a workout, too. Write down your hotel address first – just in case you end up actually lost.

2 HOME IN GOOD TIME

Does a brisk walk home from work seem like a step too far? Gamify it. All you need is your smartphone and a distance/timer tracker app. Set your route. Commit to doing it once a week. Challenge yourself to beat your time. Who knows, your friends might want to step up to the challenge as well!

3 BEAR THE LOAD

Shopping online is convenient. But actual shopping is worth getting out for. Brisk walking while bearing weight – yes, shopping bags count – is known as a “loaded carry”. You’re working every muscle in your body: the benefits of physical activity without a gym. Plus, it’s an excuse to hit the sales.

4 STRAIGHTEN UP TO STRENGTHEN

Digital dependence can mess with your posture. So when you walk, don't hunch over your phone. Keep your core muscles hard and head tall. And make sure you’re using your glutes – your backside muscles – with each step. This helps to elongate your spine and reset your body after a day at your desk.