{"id":8396,"date":"2026-08-03T20:06:10","date_gmt":"2026-08-03T20:06:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=8396"},"modified":"2026-08-03T20:06:10","modified_gmt":"2026-08-03T20:06:10","slug":"i-walk-10000-steps-a-day-heres-the-gear-i-use-to-stay-motivated-and-pain-free","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=8396","title":{"rendered":"I walk 10,000 steps a day. Here\u2019s the gear I use to stay motivated and pain-free"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Our featured picks<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n For comfortable miles<\/h4>\n
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\n\nHoka Women’s Bondi 9 Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Hoka<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Hoka<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n A does-it-all smart watch<\/h4>\n
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\n\nGarmin Venu 4 Smart Watch\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Garmin<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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\n Comfortable leggings with tons of pockets<\/h4>\n
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\n\nLululemon Fast and Free High-Rise 5-Pocket Tight\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"lululemon<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Lululemon<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n A lightweight bag for any season<\/h4>\n
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\n\nFree People Quilted Baby Carryall Sling Bag\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Free<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Free People<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n For cold weather miles<\/h4>\n
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\n\nUrevo Strol 2S Pro Walking Pad Treadmill\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"A<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Urevo<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n I may be a marathon runner, but one of my favorite exercise routines is taking a long walk with intentionality. There\u2019s nothing that clears my head more than a multi-mile walk, especially around my favorite park. Luckily, my somewhat-escapist practice has proven health benefits, such as reducing cognitive decline and improving sleep.\n <\/p>

Read more Trump allies push president to call on Max Miller to drop out amid abuse allegations, sources say<\/a><\/p>\n

\n While many folks make a goal to hit 10,000 steps daily to maintain their overall health, it turns out that you might not need to pound the pavement that much. A study from JAMA Internal Medicine found that as few as 4,400 steps a day was enough to the lower the mortality rates of participants when compared to those who achieved half that amount. What\u2019s more, the study showed that after about 7,500 steps, the health benefits leveled out. Keep in mind that there is still limited research around the correlation between step count and mortality rates, though.\n <\/p>\n

\n Even knowing this, I\u2019m still determined to get those 10,000 steps in. That said, I live in an extremely walkable city, have a dog who loves the park, rely on public transit about a half-mile walk from my house and am usually training for a marathon or some other race, so getting to this number is pretty feasible for me.\n <\/p>\n

\n It\u2019s not all fun and games, though. I have arthritis and experience knee and hip pain most days, so I take the gear I wear and use seriously in order to stay comfortable throughout my walks. From my favorite walking shoes to my go-to smartwatch, these are the items I rely on for getting 10,000 steps a day.\n <\/p>\n

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Summer Cartwright\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best fitness gifts for gym lovers, according to trainers and coaches<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Essentials for walking 10,000 steps a day\n<\/h2>\n
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Hoka Bondi 9<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nHoka Women’s Bondi 9 Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Hoka<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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In my opinion, the Hoka Bondi 9 shoes are as fashionable as orthopedic shoes get. Though they’re not technically in that category, they have loads of features that ensure comfort and durability, much like many orthopedic options on the market. My favorite features include rear-foot frames that cradle heels for stability, the brand’s Smooth MetaRocker (the slight upward curve along the toes and heels) that boosts momentum and the breathable mesh uppers that keep sweat away.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $140 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $141 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Hoka\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nHoka Men’s Bondi 9 Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"hoka<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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While I wear these for walking and running, they’re also relatively functional during gym workouts or other cross-training activities like rowing or indoor cycling. The cushioning never throws off my balance, even when I’m on uneven terrain, and the slip-resistant soles have yet to fail me during icy winter strolls. They’re a dependable pair of shoes I recommend to athletes I coach and friends who are working their way from couch to 5K.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $140 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$175<\/s>\n From $141 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Hoka\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $175 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nGarmin Venu 4 Smart Watch\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $547 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $550 at Garmin\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $550 at Best Buy\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $550 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Best Tested<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nStakt Adjustable Weighted Vest\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n $158 at Stakt\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nFree People Quilted Baby Carryall Sling Bag\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Free<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Free People<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $58 at Free People\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nAmazon Basics Extra-Thick Yoga Mat\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$22<\/s>\n $21 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nChirp Halo Wireless Muscle Stimulator\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n $170 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at Chirp\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $180 at The Feed\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Woman<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Dana Zepeda\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best treadmills of 2026, tried and tested<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Essentials for walking 10,000 steps a day in warm weather\n<\/h2>\n
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Editor Favorite<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nSunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Sunday<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n $60 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $60 at Sunday Afternoons\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $60 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Best Tested<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBombas Performance Compression Ankle Socks\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n $25 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nGoodr Circle G Sunglasses\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"goodr<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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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 \u2014 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. <\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n $30 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $30 at Goodr\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $30 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBody Glide Body Original Anti-Chafe Balm\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Body Glide<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n From $9 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $9 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $10 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $10 at Target\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nSupergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Supergoop!<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Amazon<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n $19 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $19 at Supergoop\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $19 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $19 at Sephora\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nb.box Triple Insulated Water Bottle\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$37<\/s>\n $30 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$37<\/s>\n $35 at b.box\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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O2O Creative\/E+\/Getty Images<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nYour daily walk matters in more ways than you think<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Essentials for walking 10,000 steps a day in cold weather\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nLululemon Women’s Fast and Free Fleece Running Gloves\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p>

Read more Furious Trump is considering removing Pirro over Reflecting Pool filing, sources say<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $44 at Lululemon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Best Tested<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nCarhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Carhartt<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$20<\/s>\n From $12 at Carhartt\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$20<\/s>\n From $12 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Women’s Therma-Fit Running Jacket\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$140<\/s>\n From $57 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$140<\/s>\n $70 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$145<\/s>\n $134 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nLululemon Fast and Free High-Rise 5-Pocket Tight\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $128 at Lululemon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nUrevo Strol 2S Pro Walking Pad Treadmill\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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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.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$550<\/s>\n $300 at Urevo\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$550<\/s>\n $430 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$530<\/s>\n $450 at Macy’s\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\"Best<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Alex Rennie\/CNN Underscored<\/figcaption>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nRelated article<\/span>\nAfter testing ten models, this is the massage gun I reach for after every workout<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n How to choose essentials for walking 10,000 steps a day\n<\/h2>\n

\n When you\u2019re shopping for essentials that will support your daily step goal \u2014 whether it\u2019s 10,000 or 1,000 steps \u2014 it\u2019s important to consider things like your budget, your needs and your climate.\n <\/p>\n

\n Consider your budget\n<\/h3>\n

\n I like to remind myself that, unlike opting into a gym membership, walking and running outside are free. There are, of course, some staple products like shoes and clothes you need, but at the end of the day, you shouldn\u2019t have to deplete your savings account to get moving. If you\u2019re torn between what to invest in, I recommend a good pair of shoes to start. While a quality pair like the Hoka Bondi 9 shoes I mention above ring in around $175, they last for hundreds of miles, and the stability features and cushioning can even help prevent injuries that\u2019ll cost you more in medical bills. Sure, there are cheaper shoes out there, but you might need to replace them a few times within the lifespan of these durable ones from Hoka.\n <\/p>\n

\n Determine what\u2019s preventing you from walking\n<\/h3>\n

\n If your walking routine has been tedious or uncomfortable lately, think about why. Is the winter weather making you unmotivated? Is that jacket you\u2019ve had for a decade not keeping the wind out? Figure out what\u2019s stopping you from getting your steps in and then dive into a solution. I rely on my Urevo walking pad during cold weather because I can still get my steps in without leaving my home. If I need to step outside but want to stay warm, then I throw on my Nike jacket \u2014 a worthy match for windy weather. Prioritizing your comfort will keep you in motion.\n <\/p>\n

\n Prepare for weather\n<\/h3>\n

\n If you, like me, live in a winter wonderland from the months of December through March, invest in cold weather gear and indoor equipment. If you\u2019re always in the sun, make sure you have a water bottle on hand for hydration before, after and during your movement. Investing in UPF clothing for any type of weather is always a smart idea too.\n <\/p>\n

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\nRelated article<\/span>\nI\u2019m a running coach with arthritis. These are the best shoes for knee pain<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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