I walk 10,000 steps a day. Here’s the gear I use to stay motivated and pain-free

Our featured picks

Hoka Bondi 9

Garmin Venu 4 Smart Watch

If you prefer cardio activities such as walking or running, buying a running watch will enhance your movement. This Garmin is my favorite because it has fewer buttons and a slicker look than other iterations, so it’s easier to use and more attractive to wear. It’s comparable to the Apple Watch, but I prefer its enhanced GPS, programmed workouts and the free training plans Garmin provides, which are helpful if you have a race or goal in mind. I wear this watch nonstop, and it tracks metrics like sleep, heart rate, steps and stress. Bonus: It gives me a morning and night-time report with workout recommendations, as well as an ideal sleep schedule to follow.

Stakt Adjustable Weighted Vest

When I want to amp up my walks, I put on this weighted vest. (Did you know adding resistance like this to your workouts can increase bone density?) I like it because I can wear the 6-pound variation one day, then zip on the bottom section to add 2 pounds the next day for a more challenging workout. This kind of customization comes in handy, especially when you’re just starting to add weight to your walks and gradually building up the intensity. Other features of note include a removable washable liner, large pockets that easily fit your phone, and adjustable chest and shoulder straps for a comfortable fit.

Free People Quilted Baby Carryall Sling Bag

I know a lot of people like fanny packs, but I prefer a shoulder bag for my walks, like this one (which can also be worn as a crossbody). It doesn’t get in the way of my arms, and it holds a lot more than a standard fanny pack. Plus, I can wear it to occasions like dinners or gatherings without feeling it’s too sporty or out of place. The quilted fabric is soft and warm in the winter, just like a puffer coat, but it doesn’t get too stifling during warmer months. I prefer the baby option to the brand’s larger size because the small size is more comfortable for walks, and it still fits my water bottle and wallet.

Amazon Basics Extra-Thick Yoga Mat

I try to stretch before and after every walk and run, and this thick yoga mat is a staple in my routine. It’s so good, my 66-year-old mom and I both use it. The thick padding protects my knees, hands and wrists from getting sore during different stretches. Plus, storing this thing is a breeze: It fits under my bed or sits upright in my closet corner.

Chirp Halo Wireless Muscle Stimulator

On days when my arthritis is flaring up, I rely on this muscle simulator to provide some relief. It uses a combination of electronic muscle stimulation (EMS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow and decrease soreness.

Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat

CNN Underscored outdoors editor Kai Burkhardt put me onto this UPF 50+ sun hat. Not only does its wide brim provide expansive sun protection, it also has a sweat-wicking headband inside to keep your head as dry and as comfortable as possible. This, combined with the neck cape that protects the back of the neck, is a savior when the UV is above 7.

Bombas Performance Compression Ankle Socks

The right socks can make or break your workout. Trust me, I’ve experienced some disastrous blistering after a few hours in heavier cotton styles on sweaty days (cotton fabric alone holds onto moisture, which can greatly irritate the surrounding skin). To prevent this from happening again, I rely on these Bombas compression socks for my cardio stints. They’re made with a moisture-wicking fabric blend of polyester, nylon, elastane and Supima cotton that keeps feet dry. The fabric and seamless toe construction prevent irritation from your first step to your last.

Goodr Circle G Sunglasses

I lose things a lot, which is why I love these cheap sunglasses from Goodr. They have a fashion-forward look but come at a budget-friendly price that I’m comfortable with — misplacing a $30 pair feels a lot less painful than a $300 one. The eye protection is stellar, and even when I’m running, they stay on my head and in place.

Body Glide Body Original Anti-Chafe Balm

There’s nothing worse than chafed thighs, especially during summer strolls. That’s why I don’t leave home without applying Body Glide to my legs, armpits and back (sports bra irritation can creep up anywhere). In addition to saving my skin, this balm lasts forever. I’ve had the same one for years, and it gets the job done every time.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50

I hate when sunscreen gets into my eyes and causes a burning sensation, and this happens all too often when I’m sweating. Somehow, Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen never causes any irritation. I’ve worn this during marathons and have yet to experience any stinging. Better yet, it goes on completely clear and doesn’t pill. You can’t beat that.

b.box Triple Insulated Water Bottle

I believe the best water bottles are ones that actually inspire you to drink water because I’m not naturally motivated to stay hydrated. This bottle encourages me to chug water since the strap attaches to my bag so it’s always handy. It keeps my water cold for literal days thanks to its three layers of insulation, and it’s cute.

Lululemon Women’s Fast and Free Fleece Running Gloves

I know spending $44 on gloves seems ridiculous, but after wearing these during long runs throughout New York’s heinous winter months, I can attest they’re worth every penny. The fleece kept my fingers warm despite negative temps, but never made my hands sweaty. The gloves are also made with screen-conductive fabric, so you can text or make calls without taking them off.

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Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie

You can’t beat the simplicity or durability of a Carhartt beanie. This winter hat is a staple for everything I do throughout cold weather months, from walks and runs to shoveling the backyard and beyond. To save some money, I like to shop new colors in the summer when they’re on sale for close to 50% off.

Nike Women’s Therma-Fit Running Jacket

I haven’t found a jacket better than this one because it boasts heat-regulating technology that keeps me warm without overheating my body. I like to wear this over a long-sleeved shirt when it hits around 25 degrees F; I feel comfortable for 60 minutes or longer.

Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise 5-Pocket Tight

I own a lot of running tights, but the Lululemon Fast and Free ones are my favorite to don while walking. The sweat-wicking bottoms have five pockets that hold everything I need, from my iPhone and keys to my wallet and ID. Most surprisingly, they can even fit a handheld water bottle for hydration on the go. The UPF 40+ protection these tights provide is simply icing on the cake.

Urevo Strol 2S Pro Walking Pad Treadmill

Sometimes leaving the house feels impossible. Whether I want to continue my latest Netflix binge or I’m trying to avoid the chilly winter climate, having this walking pad in my house has been a game changer. It’s built with sturdy handles and a display shelf for my iPad, plus its special shock-absorbing walkway keeps my joints happy. It can reach running speeds of 7.6 mph (an 8-minute mile) and can get up to a hefty 9% incline to boot.

Summer Cartwright is the health and fitness editor for CNN Underscored. She’s an RRCA-certified running coach, four-time marathoner and a certified cycling instructor.

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