What are the benefits of walking 10,000 steps each day?

By engaging in more physical activity each day you can have more energy, less stress, better weight management, a decreased chance of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, colon and breast cancer, and osteoporosis.

 How are the number of miles that I walk calculated?

 The average person takes about 2000 steps to walk one mile. This number is based on research at the Froedtert & Medical College Cardiovascular Center.

If I hear something moving in my pedometer, is that normal?

It is normal to hear a noise in the pedometer sometimes; the noise comes from the suspended lever arm, which moves up and down as you move. You'll notice that the lever arm counts "steps" when you shake or move the pedometer. That, too, is normal - but it's not a very healthy way to get your steps in!

I don't think my pedometer is working properly. What should I do?

In most cases, problems with pedometers accurately recording steps can be remedied by adjusting how the pedometer is positioned on your body. The pedometer should be placed snugly on the waistline of clothing as close to the hipbone as possible.

What happens after I reach my goal?

It takes about three to six months to make a behavior a habit, try to aim to make your new behavior a permanent lifestyle change. If you can dedicate yourself enough to maintain this behavior for 6 months then it is more likely that you can maintain it permanently.

How often should I replace my walking shoes?

Usually walking shoes should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles (or every 3 to 6 months). Replace your shoes when you can tell the difference between your old pair and a new pair. Do not go by their appearance. The inner support can be very worn while they still look ok on the outside. It is a good idea to rotate two pair of shoes if you walk daily, therefore they can bounce back between walks. Saving your walking shoes for walks (not everyday casual wear) will make them last longer.

When should you forgo your workouts?

1) If you are overly stressed, not getting enough rest, or not well hydrated.

2) If you have additional symptoms (fever, body aches, upset stomach, chest congestion, swollen glands, etc), are pregnant, or have other health issues do not exercise until you are feeling better or get a physician's approval.

How do I calculate my stride length by myself

2000 steps is the default number for how many steps you take in one mile. This is an average but you can easily calculate how many steps you take in one mile in order to personalize this information. If you have a route that you know is exactly one mile, you can simply walk that route and record how many steps it took you. If you do not have a route planned out, then follow one of these simple procedures.

Walking on the Fike track

• Start at the first orange line in outside lane
• Walk to the second orange line in the opposite corner of the track
• Multiply this number by 17.6
• This gives you the number of steps you take in one mile

• Reset your pedometer to 0
• Walk one lap around the track
• Multiply this number by 4
• This gives you the number of steps you take in one mile