Since its launch in late 2004 and follow up campaigns since, is 10,000 steps a day still what people aim for? Research shows the average stride length is 2.5 meaning it takes 10,000 steps to walk five miles. A sedentary person in comparison only averages between 1,000 and 3,000 steps a day.

 The NHS website still features this challenge as a great way to start to get fit and there is even a designated site full of ideas featuring the step challenge.

 There are lots of ways to increase the number of steps you take each day and like any form of exercise, start slow and build up, set yourself little targets, you are not going to aim for 10,000 steps on your first day!!! Our biggest tip – invest in some good walking shoes - blisters are not going to help you on your way to becoming a walking Olympian!

 There are many ways to increase your daily steps. Use your imagination and come up with your own list… or just pinch a few from ours!

  • Take a walk with your spouse, child, or friend – it’s a chance to have a natter too
  • Walk the dog
  • Use the stairs instead of the lift
  • Park farther from the shops
  • Better yet, walk to the shops – will save you money spent on petrol
  • Get up to change the channel
  • Walk over to visit a neighbor – another chance for a natter
  • Get outside to walk around the garden or do a little weeding

 Everyone can take this challenge at their own pace and its something all the family can join in with, but maybe after Christmas!!