Count the number of steps you take everyday

You might have heard of 10,000 steps per day is the right number to set as your daily target. A goal of 10,000 steps per day was created as a promotion by a pedometer company in Japan in the 1960s and it became popular as it was adopted by walking clubs. The number wasn't based on research—it just sounded good.

It's a good idea to find out how many steps a day you walk. A study found a threshold for reducing the risk of premature death is 4,500 steps per day. Even a small increase in steps per day above being inactive can make a difference in health. 

Walking helps to reduce your risk of these common health problems:

• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Depression

How far will you go today? Your goal will depend on your starting point. But nearly everyone can reap the benefits of walking more, step by step.