Ever wonder how fast you’re suppose to be walking when exercising? The Department of Health and Human Services, American Heart Association, and other organizations recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, the equivalent of 30 minutes on five days per week.
So what’s moderate? It’s approximately 100 steps per minute which would produce your 3000 recommended steps per week.
Remember the song ‘Stayin Alive’ by the Bee Gees and the scene with John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever? If you match your pace to that song you will be hitting 103 steps per minute.
For me I walk as fast as I’m able to. Any faster might be detrimental to my health.
I hope you don’t mind but I believe I’ll find a different song to keep in my head while walking about the neighborhood. I’ve never been able to bring myself to watch that movie never mind risk that song getting stuck in my head.
How about Steppenwolf’s “Magic Carpet Ride”?
Thanks for the info though.
Fast as you’re able is good. So classic rock huh? Yeah that will work.
I’m a pretty fast walker no matter where I am. My husband can’t keep up with me. I leave him in the parking lot and I’m talking away. Look around and I’m talking to myself! He’s half a block behind!
Brenda
Sadly I walk slower than this, hence I must continue with my 6 day a week weight, elliptical, and bicycle regimen. : (
Elaine this is the first time I have heard what the pace of walking should be, I have heard that walking is good for you though, next time I am out for a walk I will count my pace
Interesting. I think it depends on the individual though. Age, your general health, etc…..
I walk our dog a few times a week. Going is slow. A lot of sniffs. lol But coming back is very brisk and it feels like a good workout. Chibi might be small, but those four little legs can move! lol Otherwise it’s very often the treadmill for a half hour a day. I prob reach the pace of that song at the end, but certainly don’t do it for the whole half hour. Mercy! lol
I’m a big fan of walking, but I never knew about the intensity. Good information! I’m going to count when I go out today!
Brenda – a speed walker eh?
Laoch – I would say your 6 day regimen is more than a moderate workout, especially considering where you were a year ago.
Mary Anne – walking is very good for you, regardless of pace.
Janet – It is amazing how fast these tiny dogs can walk! Poco even keeps up when one of us jogs with him. About age, general health, yes definitely all those must be taken into consideration. When I use the treadmill, I start off at 3.0 for one lap then quickly move up to 3.7 and maintain that for a good 30 minutes before slowing back to 3.0
Keli - do you listen to music while you walk? I find that helps me keep my pace and motivation.