Congratulations! You’ve signed up for WALK’s 30-day 60-mile Challenge and have happily walked 2 miles both days.

Thinking about walking for 30 days is easy, but how do you continue to get yourself out the door the next 28? 

Excuses, Excuses, Excuses

It is very easy to talk yourself out of walking. Over the years, I’ve used every excuse: 

• It’s too hot
• It’s too cold 
• It might rain 
• It is raining
• I’ll be late for work 
• I’m tired after working all day
• It’s getting dark….

You have to figure out a way to ignore your excuses.

8 Tips to Get out the Door

It is important to set yourself up for success so you will walk, even when you don’t feel like it.

Here are eight tips to help you keep going:

• Set a goal. You’ve already done that by signing up for the 30-day walking challenge. 
• Get support. COVID-19 and social distancing can make walking in a group challenging. By joining and participating in the 30-day Challenge Facebook group you can build camaraderie and support each other without meeting face-to-face.
• Set an appointment. Block out time to walk every day and keep that appointment with yourself.
• Prepare. Before you go to bed, get your walking clothes ready so you don’t have to think about it in the morning. Just get up, throw on your clothes and go.
• Plan. If you prefer walking after work, pack a gym bag to take your workout clothes with you. Change at work and stop at a park on your way home. It is much easier to walk if you don’t go home first and get distracted.
• Listen. Download an awesome audio book or podcast and listen to it only when you are out walking. When I listen to thrillers or mysteries, I will keep going until I reach the end of an exciting chapter.
• Track your progress. I have a 30-day fitness planner I love. It’s hard to believe, but putting a check mark on each day I have walked 2 miles inspires me! I don’t want to miss a single day.
• Reward yourself. When you reach your goal treat yourself to something you want, but will also help keep you motivated. After completing the 30-day challenge, buy a new pair of walking socks, fun sunglasses, or a wicking shirt, for example. (Maybe go to Columbus Running Company.)

Treadmills, Too

Walking on a treadmill can be even more challenging. If you use one at home, DVR your favorite TV show and watch it only when you are on the treadmill. If you go to the gym, get there when your favorite show is on and watch til the end. (I just have to see who wins an episode of Chopped.) You can also invite a friend to meet you at the gym so you can walk together.

Do it Anyway

When all else fails, and I really don’t feel like walking, I remember a quote from Adam Corolla, “Do it anyway.”

Then I tie my shoes and go for a walk. You can, too.

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