I’ve always had a thing for taking a walk after work. As I’ve said before it helps me to unwind after a long day of figuring out algorithms and laying out code. It’s not like it’s physically strenuous, but it still takes a lot out of you. Besides the required mental energy, the fact that I’m seated for most of the day can be hard. The walk from work to the station takes me about 35 to 40 minutes at a leisurely pace. It’s long enough to be substantial, but short enough to not feel like an ordeal. It’s relaxing, for sure. Over the past few years doing the walk has just been an occasional thing–maybe a few days a week. Although, the frequency tends to be less during the summer months because I seriously can’t stand the heat.

So, over the past week or two, I’ve started making the walk to the station a little bit more than I normally would. See, a little while ago I picked up a pedometer from Wal-mart. Now, a lot of people say that 10,000 steps is a good number to aim for in order to encourage good health. Seriously, I see that number everywhere. Well, it seems to me that due to the nature of my job I can’t seem to get to that number unless I make that trek, and perhaps head out for a lunchtime walk. So, that’s why I’ve been consciously trying to get out there more often. It’s just another step in my quest to find better health. I don’t think I would have consciously made the effort if it wasn’t for the pedometer. Seeing something quantitative really makes it easy to keep track. This is an inexpensive piece of equipment that you can clip on and just check on every now and then. The fact that you have a goal in mind keeps you accountable. Very useful!