Winter walking tips: how to stay active and hit your step goal

Let’s face it, getting your steps in is hard enough when it’s warm outside. But for many of us, once the temperature drops, we’re more worried about counting carbs than steps. Winter is more for hibernation, extra layers and debating whether walking to the mailbox counts as cardio.

We’ve all heard the gold standard is at least 10,000 steps per day. The trick, especially during winter, is how to hit that goal. Well, you came to the right place, friends. I have just the right moves to work in your daily routine and spring you into summer. 

Join a gym

'Tis the season to re-up that gym membership. One of the best ways to make sure you’re prioritizing your exercise during these frigid months is to invest in your wellness at a local gym. There are many gyms throughout Kansas City that would happily welcome you, and many offer discounts this time of year. The best part? They’re indoors.

Consider a walking pad

Who has space for a treadmill? Walking pads are in, and they’re inexpensive. They can easily fit in a storage closet when not in use. Whether you’re in a meeting, reading or streaming, a walking pad just might be the move. 

Turn errands into treks

Park farther out, take the stairs and maybe even skip the grocery app sometimes so you can rack up those steps the old-fashioned way. And when you’re finished conquering the aisles like the wellness warrior you are, help out your fellow shoppers and return your cart to its rightful home in the corral. You get more steps in and someone's car remains dent free.

Brave the cold

Possibly the least enjoyable tip, however, there are several health benefits to walking outside in cold temperatures. Besides the benefits of walking, daily walks outside in the winter may actually improve your immune system. However, it’s important to know your limits and not to overexpose yourself to cold temperatures. Too much cold air can negatively affect your respiratory system. Be sure to bundle up so you don’t get frostbite or hypothermia. As a general rule, outdoor walking is considered safe for most people when temperatures (or wind chill) are above 20°F, as long as you’re properly dressed.

Explore a local museum

Museums are a great way to get steps in, and Kansas City has no shortage of great ones. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or giving an old favorite another look, these local museums are sure to get you up, moving and inspired along the way:

• National WWI Museum and Memorial
• The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
• Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
• American Jazz Museum
• Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art
• Museum of BBQ

No matter how chilly it gets, there are plenty of ways to keep moving and stay active this winter. NKC Health offers a variety of fitness classes designed to keep you motivated, connected and moving all season long.

So, take a hike! But be sure to come back and read more of our blogs, too.

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Trevin Lambert

Trevin is the Content Development Coordinator at NKC Health. In his position, he creates a variety of written materials utilized throughout the hospital and online for both internal and external audiences. He and his wife, Maddie, recently adopted a dog, Dolly Pawton, and have a cat named Keanu Reeves.