9 Different Ways To Guarantee You'll Get Your 10,000 Steps In For The Day

The idea of taking those recommended 10,000 steps a day is understandably daunting, even for someone like me, who genuinely enjoys getting their walk on.

And yes, it does take a little self-reminding and added effort, especially given how frighteningly easy it is to just sit in one place for hours on end like a statue with hands that type. 

But there are plenty of ways to get yourself moving throughout the day that don't have to feel completely forced.

Here are nine different and more exciting ways to get your 10,000 steps in for the day.

1. Take That Conversation On The Go

Whether you and your BFF are dissecting text messages from a potential bae, or your mom wants to go on and on about your annoying neighbors, take the conversation to the yard, or even around the block.

It'll feel great to get your body moving in a natural way, and outdoor distractions like people-watching or silently losing your sh*t over a cute dog being walked nearby will help you tune out, you know, if your mom keeps going on and on and on.

Sorry, Mom. Love you.

2. Listen To Music As You Go

One of my favorite ways to start or end the day is to put on some music and go for a stroll, even if it's just a brief 20 minutes.

It's kind of like meditation, and for me, it's much easier to stick to this on a consistent basis, even on days when my body simply refuses any kind of structured exercise.

Create the perfect playlist to guide you through your walk and make the steps feel like a breeze.

Personally, my favorite thing to do is listen to an entire album from an artist, start to finish.

3. Plan Your Errands With A Strategy In Mind

On any given day, I probably have at least one errand (or 20) to do.

I try to accomplish one per day as a way to consistently motivate myself to take a break from whatever it is I'm doing and get my legs moving.

It simply means carving out a few extra minutes here and there, and when I look for the time, I can usually find it.

4. Treat Yo'Self

Think of this is as a kind of light at the end of the tunnel -- but like, not in a dark way, I promise.

Basically, get your steps in by rewarding yourself with something special.

Walk yourself to the library to get a book, or take a stroll to that new boutique with the deliciously intoxicating candles for sale.

5. Lean Into Your Nervous Habit And Pace Around The Room

This piece of advice was actually given to me by a friend who hates to "formally" exercise.

He told me, whenever he's working on a project and trying to think, or when he's talking on the phone, he stands up and walks back and forth.

Honestly, this is a pretty natural habit for most people, making it that much easier to reach your daily 10,000 steps.

6. Don't Skip Your Break At Work

This can be a challenge for those of you who get in the zone and feel figuratively chained to your desk.

But it's super important, for the sake of your sanity, if nothing else.

Eat your lunch at your desk as you work, and once your break rolls around, use the time to walk outside and stroll around a nearby store.

You don't even have to buy anything if you don't want to. Regardless of where you go or what you do, you're still getting those steps in, girl.

7. If Someone Asks For A Favor, Help Them Out

Whenever something needs to be picked up, whether it's my roommate's prescriptions or that weird, super-secret package for a colleague's client, I offer to do it.

Better yet, maybe there's a sick or older friend, or a set of new parents in your social circle. Can you bring them some groceries or run an errand for them?

It'll get you moving and get your ole heart shining with the sparkle of good deeds.

8. Change Up Your Commute A Little

If you commute to work by train or subway, try getting off one stop early (or even a couple, if you're feeling ambitious) and walking the extra distance.

On the other hand, if you drive or bike to work, think about parking farther away than you normally do to give yourself some extra steps in both directions.

Be sure to listen to that kickass playlist you built, too, while you walk.

9. Brave Those Extra Flights Of Stairs

The age-old tip for extra exercise, right?

Well, it still works.

Going up and down the stairs a couple times a day at the office or your apartment really can add up over time.

And hey, if you're on the 25th floor? Challenge yourself to walk up to floor 10, and reward yourself with the elevator the rest of the way.