Columbus residents walk half a mile a day
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Columbus residents walk about a half-mile per day on average, according to a new StreetLight report.
Why it matters: Even a short daily walk can do wonders for your health, and the data shows we could be lacing 'em up a little more often.
By the numbers: The average Columbusite walks 168 miles over the course of a year.
- That can seem pretty far: It's the straight-line distance all the way to Pittsburgh.
- Yes, but: On a daily basis, it's just the equivalent of one lap around Ohio Stadium.
The intrigue: Residents of Orlando, Florida, log over 650 miles walked per year. Perhaps waiting in line at Disney counts?
💭 Tyler's thought bubble: The pandemic had me feeling too sedentary, so I took up a goal of 10,000 daily steps a few years ago.
- I've only missed a handful of days in the past few years (mainly owing to illnesses).
I'll admit: I was initially motivated by the satisfaction of reaching that nice round number.
- Over time, it's led to a broader change in mindset. I usually take the stairs, prefer a longer route when possible, and pace the house while on the phone.
- I don't sweat about the 10,000 number anymore. My new habits get me there one way or another.
Two more tips from this humble step counter:
🔁 Build a habit. Maybe it's a regular walk to start the day, or a daily constitutional after dinner.
- Whatever works for your schedule and interests, stick to it.
👟 Consider a walking pad. I bought one of these cheap mini treadmills and it's proven very useful.
- I walk during longer work meetings, at night when watching a ballgame, or whenever I'm too chicken to face the winter cold.
How (and where) do you get your steps? Email us at [email protected] and we'll share your thoughts with fellow readers.