Cold Weather Step Goals

So, it’s time to make a plan to keep reaching my step goals every day, honoring my body with the movement it deserves to stay healthy, flexible, and strong. Today, I’m sharing my favorite tips for getting your movement in as the weather cools down, even when those outdoor walks are no longer an option.

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1. Move the Movement Indoors

I know this sounds obvious, but if you struggle with an all-or-nothing mindset (like many of us do), it’s easy to think that if you can’t do your usual outdoor walk, you can’t walk at all. But that couldn’t be further from the truth! We can absolutely get our steps indoors. If your home isn’t conducive to moving around, let me share a hack: head to the mall! My go-to way to get indoor steps is by running errands or enjoying an afternoon of window shopping at my local shopping center. After just an hour or so, I often leave with most—if not all—of my steps for the day.
Bonus Tip: Since I love shopping and window browsing, this routine keeps me feeling emotionally fulfilled and creatively inspired after looking at all the beautiful displays. Mall walking is actually a thing, and many malls have mile markers for a reason. Take advantage of it on cold days!

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2. Invest in a Walking Pad

There’s a reason walking pads are so popular right now! These compact treadmills are perfect for getting steps indoors, often designed to fit under a standing desk so you can work and walk simultaneously. But who says you can’t set it up in front of the TV for a relaxing living room stroll? Walking pads are usually less expensive than full-size treadmills, and many are foldable for easy storage under a couch or against a wall. They’re the ultimate space saver and a fantastic way to rack up steps in any season.

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3. Be Less Efficient with Your Chores

In today’s productivity-driven world, we tend to focus on getting as much done as quickly as possible. But here’s one of the best tips I’ve ever received for sneaking in more movement: be less efficient with your chores! Instead of lugging all the laundry into one basket and carrying it down in one trip, make two or three trips with smaller loads.
Yes, it sounds counterintuitive, but being less efficient can help add those extra steps without feeling like a workout. This mindset shift is great for adding bursts of movement to your day, even on the busiest ones.

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4. The Age-Old Standby: Stepping in Place

This technique has been my trusty fallback for years. Stepping in place is as easy as it sounds—just stand in one spot and march, swinging your arms as if you’re walking down the street. I used to do this during commercial breaks back in the cable TV days. I’d get up, march during commercials, and sit back down when my show returned. It’s a simple way to hit your step goals while watching your favorite shows.
Pro Tip: With streaming services, I now have to be more intentional about when to march in place, but setting reminders or cues can help. This tried-and-true technique can make a big difference even on the coziest, couch-bound days.

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Breaking Through the All-or-Nothing Mindset

Now that I’ve shared a few suggestions, let’s talk about mindset. Just because you can’t get outside doesn’t mean your movement has to stop. Instead of seeing winter as an obstacle, embrace the fall and winter seasons by honoring your body with consistent movement. Whether it’s a few steps indoors or finding new routines to stay active, every little bit helps to keep your wellness goals in check.

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While fall and winter might shift the way you stay active, they also bring new opportunities to get creative and find routines that nourish both body and mind. Whether you’re moving indoors, exploring cozy new activities, or challenging yourself in new ways, keep focusing on your goals and stay consistent. You've got everything it takes to make this season one of growth, strength, and health. I’m here cheering you on every step of the way—let’s make this season your best yet!