Healthy steps: How do you count?
Print
EmailIf counting steps is part of your workout plan, try a gadget that monitors your heart rate as well.
It’s that time of year again where many are wondering about fitness and getting back into shape right before the holidays start to roll around. How are you staying fit? Are you counting your steps? What measures are you taking to get back into shape?
Like most Americans, many people start off by walking to get into shape. Some people like this because it’s not that hard to do and you can start off very easy and increase your intensity by walking faster or longer. Many people begin to wonder how beneficial their walking is to them and how can they track it. With all the technology out there from Fitbits to watches to heart rate monitors, there is no wonder why some people may be confused on what to buy to help determine the benefits of your workout.
When counting steps, some people go by the daily recommended steps of 10,000 steps a day, which is considered somewhat active. However, the best gadget to get is something that monitors your heart rate as well. This helps determine how much you are working your heart. There is a resting heart rate and a target heart rate that you should look at as it relates to your age. Once you figure that out, you can tell where you need to be for achieving your heart target heart rate. Being at you target heart rate helps you become more fit and reduces possible diseases associated with having a sedentary lifestyle. It also make you feel better and gives you more energy to do the things you want to do or enjoy doing.
You really have to do a little research on what goal you are trying to accomplish and how to get the equipment you need to help to reach that goal. Michigan State University Extension’s Healthy Living Programs provide youth and adults the opportunities to learn about exciting ways to be active.
