How to step it up

Heard about the 10,000steps-a-day target? This is roughly equivalent to walking five miles and, while some people find this ‘magic number’ doable, for others, it’s too ambitious – especially if health issues or joint problems are a factor. Julie advises that ‘6,0008,500 steps a day may be more suitable for healthy older adults, whereas for those with chronic health conditions or disabilities, 3,500-5,500 would be more achievable.

‘Look at how many steps you can comfortably manage and try to improve on this, little by little, step by step.’

Distraction is a successful method, says Julie. Walk with a friend – you’ll go further when combining it with a natter, or listen to music or a podcast to increase the number of steps you walk without noticing. Approach walking as a positive thing, adds Julie. ‘Rather than parking close to the shops, choose a spot further away and congratulate yourself for banking extra steps.’