Because it’s easy! Health experts agree that increasing your steps is the easiest way to increase your physical activity…allowing you to improve your health and quality of life. In fact, studies now show that individuals who wear a PET and have a daily goal become more active all day and see improvements in fitness and body fat comparable to those who do more structured exercise.

You may be surprised to know that, on average, people take 3,000 to 5,000 steps per day in normal daily activities. By increasing your level to 10,000 steps per day (and beyond) you will meet the Surgeon General's recommendation for physical activity! When you reach this level, you will be burning more calories and walking your way to a healthier life.

SilverSneakers^® Steps helps you become aware of how many steps you take each day and gives you the encouragement you need to take those extra steps to meet your fitness goals. You’ll learn how, whether you’re a real athlete or just play with your grandkids, the daily activity that you already do counts toward those daily steps. And whether you’re into running a marathon or walking around the neighborhood doesn’t matter – as long as you’re moving!

SilverSneakers^® Steps is about more than just walking. But walking is still one of the best ways to add steps to your daily routine. What makes it so?

It’s easy. Walking is America’s most popular aerobic exercise. Think about it…walking is already something you do every day. You just need to do more of it. Walking doesn’t require any special skills, advance conditioning, or special equipment. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes, a pedometer and a desire to get fit – along with a few warm-up stretches.

It’s healthy. The health benefits of walking mirror those of other physical activities. In addition to helping you lose weight, reduce stress and boost energy, walking improves blood pressure and cholesterol levels, eases back pain, improves muscle tone and reduces the risk of heart attack and other health problems.

It’s safe. Walking is probably the safest exercise around. It doesn’t require prior training, conditioning or lots of physical exertion when compared to other physical activities. And walking is not as stressful on your body as some other activities can be.

So there you go! You can walk or do any of your favorite activities. SilverSneakers^® Steps is here to help you reach your fitness goals.

Before starting any exercise program, remember to talk to your physician, especially if you have not been physically active for a long time, are obese or have high blood pressure or diabetes.