Discussions

Hi All
I've just clocked up three million steps. I have struggled this year to keep walking, and had some computer problems so didn't record steps for three months, I found myself walking less during this time. Now I'm starting to get back on track, and averaging 8700 steps per day. Hope the new I-challenges will help me increase this. New years resolution will be to keep walking and end 2007 with a higher daily average than 2006.
Happy walking everyone.

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Hi Everyone

My name is Fiona and I am the one who wrote on the 29th Nov. A Big Hello to Kelly who wrote on the 2nd Dec. it sounds as though we have alot in common with the weight and Children etc.

I have had an interesting week, my pedometer that I got from the Woman's Day promotion kept dropping off when I would bend down for my Children etc. Then I lost it altogether when I went out Shopping. I was fortunate that I knew approx. how many steps that I had already done.

I then realised how committed that I have come to 10,000 steps, so I managed to buy another pedometer which worked out for the best.

The new pedometer has a cover so I don't have to worry about deleting my steps (which has happened in the past). I love the fact that I know the distance I have walked, the calories I have used etc.

I have made myself a promise that with Christmas coming I will still aim for 10,000 on the day! I don't even want to take a break, especially since I love my Christmas dinner so much!

This month is my first full month on 10,000 steps. I have completed my I-challenge by day 12, which is encouraging. In January I will up my challenge, I better make sure I get off my butt instead of getting into Holiday mode.

I want to wish everyone a Wonderful Christmas filled with LOVE, JOY & PEACE! and I hope that nobody overdoses on the Christmas Pudding!

Bless you All!

Fiona

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I wish I could remember how I found out about 10,000 steps! I feel as if everyone should know about it and this web site so I make it my business to tell everyone how helpful it has been motivating me to keep with the walking program. Like others have said, I now love it when I can't find a parking space near the store! It gives me another excuse to "get a few more steps" on my little gadget. I started with 10,000 steps, but after about two weeks decided to make the goal 13,000 steps and that's when I joined the I-Challenge. My life is full and busy, but I look forward to logging in my steps each day and checking my progress on the little graph. I am a director of a nursery school program and I always show the children how many steps....they try out the ped. and then we record their steps...we compare running steps, and walking steps. Everyone is enjoying the adventure! (and getting healthy at the same time). In three weeks I have lost five lbs....the healthy way...eating good food and walking 10,000 steps. Julia

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Hi everyone, Just wanted to share my story. I joined the programme on the 27th Sept. I had had back surgery late August, and walking was part of my healing process. I started doing the 10,000 steps and it was not easy. Then I decided that I needed to have more motivation and did the I challenge. That was the best decision I made. It gave me a goal and now I am happy to say that I do my 1000,00 steps in the morning before breakfast, which works out to be around 5 Kms, so all the steps I do for the rest of the day are a bonus. I feel so good when I achieve that goal. I have also made my I challengers a little harder. I say give it a go. You will feel great. Lib

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Greetings from Boulder City, Nevada, USA. I'm 64 years old and have been walking an average of just over 15,000 steps a day for about a year. I am always looking for things to keep me motivated in my walking and recently became aware of a website that tracked the migration of the Willie Mormon Pioneer Handcart Company from Iowa City, Iowa to what is now Salt Lake City, Utah. My Great Grandmother, Sarah Moulton, was a member of that Company and made the 1,297 mile trek in 115 days, averaging 11.28 miles per day or 22,557 steps a day, 2,594,000 steps total. I have been attempting to duplicate that effort and will finish on February 16 if successful. Fortunately I don't have to push or pull a handcart and can walk on paved trails. I read and listen to my favorite music while walking. This can be hazardous to your health, however, but so far so good. Thanks for your inspiring stories. I haven't lost any weight, but I can eat anything I want and don't gain weight because of all the walking. Best regards to all, Dave Martin

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After reading others' contributions, I thought I'd share my story to hopefully encourage those who have just started and have a fair bit of weight to lose or wonder if they'll ever get fit.
I started trying to do something for myself a year ago, when I finally topped the 100kg mark. At 103kg and 176cm (female), my BMI was 33 and I'd been heavy for many years, gradually putting on more and more weight and getting less and less fit. I started with some dieting and haphazard exercising on my own with some success, but this February I joined 10,000 steps and in March joined a national weight loss programme. I chose a plan that used sensible eating and normal food, as I could imagine adopting this as a lifetime eating pattern, and for the first time in my yoyo dieting career I had accepted that an active lifestyle and healthy eating were a permanent change and not a temporary thing required to attain my desired weight. To stay healthy, this is how I eat forever.
In the past year, I have lost 29kg and am hoping to lose a few more (aim BMI 22). My BMI has dropped from 33 to 24, and I am now in the healthy weight range. My waist and hips have both lost about 25cm but most amazing, my resting heart rate has dropped from somewhere well over 70 to just 60. I love being active now, moving is easier and I can actually run! I used to struggle to get my 10,000 steps, now I regularly do many more. I enjoy Metrogaining, rollerblading, walking and netball regularly, but even when I don't set out to exercise, I am moving more because it's easier. I don't do 10,000 every day (I like my rest days too) but my average is well over 10,000.
Let me encourage you all not just to do the 10,000 steps programme at whatever level you can manage, I encourage you all to set yourself challenges that really extend yourself (especially mentally) beyond what you think you can do. Do the toughest i-challenge you dare and GO FOR IT. The i-challenges have really helped me push myself and improve my fitness.
If you're just starting out, use the health assessment. It is soooo motivating looking back at where you've come from and I regularly look back at my health history to remind myself what I have achieved, especially when I'm finding the going tough. And take a fat photo- you might not want to show anyone yet, but when you look different and people are noticing how much healthier you look, you might want to refer back to what your "old self" used to look like.
Find the right support, and hang around people who encourage you. Avoid those who try to sabotage your attempts to get healthy. Keep on track, and if you fall off, hop back on as soon as you can. It's never too late. Remember, this is your life and if weight has always been an issue, you will probably always have to look after yourself with healthy eating and exercise.
If I can do it, anyone can. I wish you all well in your endeavours.
Caroline

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Hi Steppers

Well I did it... I set myself a Spring Challenge to walk 1000000 steps and I made it with a few days to spare! Halfway through I discovered this website and I found it very fitting that on the day I reached my 1000000 steps my prize for winning the October I-Challenge arrived - a pair of Aasics shoes. So keep at it everyone... join in the I-Challenges as they keep you motivated. I also lost about 7kg over Spring, which was not even planned!

Regards Melanie

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Hi everyone,
This is the first day of 'evolution'. I am 35 years old, have two lovely children and weigh the heaviest I ever have. I am 169cms and have hit 'the ton', that is 104kgs. My progress has been slow and I have deliberated and promised over and over on doing something about my weight. I guess I'm afraid of failing. This week when my size 18 jeans started to feel tight I resolved that it was time I faced the facts: I am categorised obese and I am actually having difficulty moving freely and get short of breath sometimes. I don't want to feel this way anymore. So, I've put in place a couple of tools (pedometer, scales, and healthy eating plan)that are going to support me in my journey back. I also hope that by joining this site and being with like minded folks the possibility of not succeeding will be minimalised. This journey will be very real for me and I'm sure as I face my challenges I won't feel so alone. Thanks for listening. Kelly

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Hi everyone
I was someone who was always fit and looked good until I had 4 Children, three are under the age of 5.

With every child I have gained 10kg. I use to weigh about 60kg and now I weigh 103kg. I am 174cm (5ft'8 I was really feeling low about my weight knowing I couldn't commit to going to gym because of the Children).

Yes I am classified as Obese I always hated that word and couldn't bring myself to calling me that!

Then I spotted the free pedometer with the Coles/Woman's Day promotional magazine, and I just love getting something for free.

The very next day I thought that I would see how many steps that I do on a normal day. Then we took the Children on a ferry to Darling Harbour and that wasn't so normal, in fact I did about 16,000 steps that day so I had to monitor myself the next day and I achieved over 10,000.

It was then that I decided to join in the challenge as I knew it was possible for me to achieve the goal of 10,000 a day. Yesterday I managed to do just under 20,000 steps and my average is 12,500

Thankyou to those who created the 10,000 step challenge it is a great motivational tool for those like myself who had lost all motivation.

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Hi everyone. Wow - what a simple tool for motivation and yet how powerful! I too got my pedometer from the magazine and I can honestly say it has changed my life! Although I was walking and trying to lose weight before - I certainly wasn't measuring my steps. But the pedometer has become my best friend! It motivates to make sure I get at the very minimum 10,000 steps in a day - and finally I'm actually DOING all the tips the Health magazines have been recommending forever (walking to the corner store, parking further away from the shops etc etc). All the gym equipment I have bought over the years and used once or twice (Thai Bo videos, ab crunchers, fit balls, weights etc etc etc) - and all I needed was a tiny pedometer! Boy have I been stupid! But onwards and upwards now - and hopefully goodbye to my final five kilos!
PJ

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Hi everyone,

Congratulations to everyone who is doing so well on this program!

I am 26 years old, and although I am not overweight, I am at the top of my healthy weight range.

I was recently diagnosed with a genetic abnormality, which resulted in a severe clotting disorder. Following two clots in my right leg, I have permanent vascular damage and put on a fair bit of weight (partly due to dietary restrictions, from being on Warfarin - I can't eat as many green vegetables and salads as I used to).

I have been wanting to do something to take control back in my life, and I went and bought a pedometer. Then I found this site, and it has done so much to motivate me... I am just less than a week in, and already keen to push myself that little bit further each time.

My point is this - if I can do this, anyone can. I have permanent pain and swelling in my right leg, but I am still beating my target of 7,000 steps most days, and am so very grateful for the ability to walk in and of itself - so many others can't.

Can I encourage all of you out there - health is a precious and finite resource, and anything we can do to conserve and improve our health and fitness is more than worth it (obviously preaching to the converted on this site!). Had I been walking more earlier on, I may not have had both of the clots with the same severity, as my circulation would likely have been much better...

Good luck and keep it up everyone!

Jane

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Hi all,

I joined the site in October after hearing about it from my health coach, a service I found I could access through work. I was motivated to finally do something about my weight and health after my child wanted me to go on a sideshow ride, that was punishing and I realised that if I didn't do something I wouldn't be able to do the ride at all next year. Walking has been my main exercise, I reckon when I started I'd be lucky to do 3000 steps on most days, by the time I signed up here I was up to maybe 6000 per day. Now my average is over 16000 per day and I just completed the November I-Challenge with 3 days to spare. Between the exercise and a major change of diet I'm down around 17 kilos and about 16cm off my waist, figures I find hard to believe but the numbers are on the scales and tape. As I work in an office and spend half my time as a single parent it can be a challenge to get the steps in some days but it's worth the effort. Good luck to all, enjoy the festive season but keep up your stepping while you do.

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Hi to everyone out there,
I have just starting doing the 10000 Steps challenge on the 14/11/2006 when my mother first saw the advertisement on TV. So I raced down to Coles and got the mag (actually 2 so Mum and I would work together) with the Pedometer on it. I know that I walk allot, but in the past week and a half I have walked about 180000 (and my average is about 16000) and to top it off I have also lost about 3-4kgs. It is absolutely fantastic because it makes me want to do the challenges and also lose that weight that I have been carrying for about 3+ years. But not only that I just feel so much more energetic and ready for everything, I also want to lose weight without have to stick to all of those extra rules (which means I didn’t find the motivation I needed) and now I have the Motivation and also the enthusiasm that I was looking for, for so long!

Just thought I would add in that I am 21 years old and 178cm and about 94kgs, about 15-20 more to go.

So remember everyone to have fun, while being fit, healthy and just enjoy! Toya

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Hello all,
I am 45 years old. we started the 10000 step program on the mine I work on the 18th of October. We also started a Belly Blasters program 10 weeks ago since then along with the step program I have lost 12kg, but since starting back on the mine site in February I have lost 19kg. This program is great it gives you something to aim for. We have got 12 teams involved so we are all trying to outdo each other. Good luck everyone, stay positive and healthy.

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Hi Walkers, I finally decided to tell you all my story so far. I only joined 10,000 steps late July this year and found all the challenges a real motivator. Over a long period of time I had a real problem with my weight, and being at an age now of 55 years where it is crucial to be fit and healthy, with the help of my GP, Dietitian and 10,000 steps I am working very hard to achieve my goal weight of 65kg. I am only 161cm tall and my weight at present is about 102kg. Since March this year I have lost 13.1 kg. I have been overweight now for so many years, I just cant remember when it all started, so with my slow weight loss I can now see the real me, who has been waiting so long to come out of hiding. It will probably take me at least another year to achieve my goal, but I am count on loosing with the 10,000 steps challenges every month. I hope this story encourages other people who are trying to have a happy and healthy life. I have walked 3,311,193 steps so far this year.

Happy Walking Suzanne

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Most of us here at Home Hill Hospital Have enjoyed the challenge of 10,000 steps. Due to family and work commitments we really couldn't get too overly enthused. Except for the pedometers getting a few dunkings in the toilet bowl, one of our girls breaking her toe, doing nothing in particular, nothing very exciting to report. Cheers Lorraine

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I have been having problems with motivating myself to exercise since moving to a property about 50km from the nearest town. I felt a bit isolated and used the distance from the local gym as an excuse not to exercise I have put on about 8kg which is not good for me as I am only 154cm tall and I was feeling lousy every time I looked in the mirror. I found the pedometer in a magazine that I just bought and put it on straight away. Already today I have done 11966 steps and I feel that this is just the motivation I need to get my act together to lose my tummy and get healthy.

Good luck to everyone else....

Sue

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Name: Natalie Miller

Hello everybody, I nearly died a month ago due to a severe asthma attack, I was a heavy smoker. The doctors told me if I didn’t stop smoking I might not have a happy ending like this time, so I made the decision to quit smoking and have felt better for it. I work on a banana farm which keeps me fit, but since I have gotten out of hospital and have lost a lot of condition I haven’t been able to work much and have started eating to substitute smoking. I have put on 10kg. I’m now back at work full time and watching what I eat and increasing my steps per day I have lost 2kg and am confident I will be better than before. People know obesity is not healthy, but a lot of normal weight people like my self are also just as unhealthy in what they eat and do, I wish everyone the best in their goals and hope you all lead healthy and long lives, Nat.

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Hi, After a visit to the doctor's last November 2005, I was in desperate need to lose weight for my health. I started with a short walk then progressed to swimming and then aerobics (at home). Today some 12 months on I have dropped 22Kg's. All from that first short walk. It can seem hard to start but I found the easiest thing to do to get started was not to think about it and just 'do it'. I designed my day so that I gave myself time each day - and I am living proof it pays off. As for the Doctor, I went back the other day and told him what I had been up to in the past year. The doctor was very impressed and my blood pressure and Cholesterol was 'disgustingly healthy' to use his words. I encourage you to simply take it one day at a time and give yourself as long as it takes. That may be a year like me. Just 'do it'. Happy walking!

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Good on you Anna for sharing Go Girl!!
One Step after another,that's what my last 2 yrs have been about, and slow but significant progress, with achievable goals are the way to go.

Im now a Div 2 Nurse for the last 2 weeks!!! I gave the smokes up a month ago. Yahooo!!! After a 26yr 30 a day habit. !!! There has been a lot of study over the last 2yrs Im a 163cm - 87kg Nurse with sore ankles and feet. As now Im walking a lot wrking 6 days a week.
I thought Id try the challenge, because I walk at work, depending on the environment sometimes I don't walk enough to burn the KG's. So I need the motivation and the step goals to make sure I see some results. Becuase often all you want to do is sit down when you get home, and guess what there is where you sit for the next few hours.
16 kg's in 12 mnths is my next big STEP, See you on the JOURNEY!!

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hi there,
i have recently finished work and am on 8 weeks paid holiday time. so far ive had 2 weeks. having all this time on my hands i swore i'd do something about my weight, but havent.
i went to visit my dad in cairns and saw his ex wife, of whom is like a second mother to me... she told me she was scared about my future health and put me on to this site.
ive just done a health assessment and im shocked and devastated. ive never weighed this much in my life. i have to find the motivation to keep to this. its so easy to be lazy. i want to have children though, and at 122kgs, i dont think its a wise idea. thats right. 122kgs.
i've got to do this, and i have to do this now.
Power on everyone, you only get one chance at life!

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Hi everyone.

After receiving my free step counter off my non energetic friend, i couldnt wait to get home to log onto the web site and start.
I stopped smoking after 23 years and have been getting up early in the mornings and hitting the pavement for an hour.{beaches are lovely at 6am}. my 14 year old staffy loves to come with me.
I will definately be wearing it everyday from now on and cant wait to see the results.
Im a widow mother of three lovely girls and would love to loose about 7 kilo and abit more tummy.
Heres hoping this will not only side track my mind from the smokes but also help me reach my goal weight. Look out two piece swim suit, this summer for sure.....

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Wow - what amazing stories that everyone has shared. Today I bought WW and there it was a free pedometer. I put it right on and started. Not a bad effort I think that I started @ 1pm today and have done 8004 steps.. 5 weeks ago I started looking out for me - and my health to ensure that I am a fit and healthy mum for my 14 month old boy who has just started to walk - someone needs to keep up with him. In the last 5 weeks I have lost 6cm off my waist and 5.5kg. This is really great and an extra motivation - so 10,000steps here I come and I cannot wait for these I-Challenges to head south to Melbourne.

Good Luck to everyone....
Lots of Love...

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Wow I'm so impressed and I too was a bit slow to start and move through the process.

Initially it was scary to see how much I don't actually move, I work in an office and although I thought I moved around alot - I didn't, which also contributed to my lower back pain.

I have found that after my evening meal even if I just hang the clothes on the lines, do the dishes or wash the floor how many calories I'm burning and how many MORE steps I'm achieving.

I now cycle go to the gym and swim and do any sort of exercise I can.

Like most my weight loss has been slow but I'm still hanging in there and staying positive.

Thanks to everyone for your inspiration and a special thank you to those that struggle with an illness which inhibits us from our goals sometimes. HANG IN THERE.

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This week I have chalked up 2,026,421 Steps. The major part of these steps have been done at work in the shunting yards of the Townsville area. Getting clost to ordering new boots… FLEMO

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Ana,
Your story is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing it with us who take our health and mobility for granted, it is a very humbling thing to learn of people who overcome illness.

Well done to you!

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Hi Ana

What a great inspiration you are. My step-sister is also has schizophrenia and struggles with her weight. Like all of us, she has trouble staying motivated, and at the moment is in a bit of a low patch. I am going to share your story with her, and hope that it inspires her as much as it has inspired me!

Thanks you for sharing.

Kerrie

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1,500,000 steps today... It only took 4 months and 1 day..

Kathy
Gold Coast

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Hi Ana

You go girl!!! Congratulations on your achievements so far. Just to get to where you are is an inspiration to many others and now you have decided to make a change I bet you will surprise yourself with what you can achieve. Remember someone famous once said \"the longest journey starts with a single step\". Enjoy the journey and keep up posted on all the great things that are going to happen for you.

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Found it milder down in Perth. But now as we approach Carnavon it's getting Hot. You don't realise just how hot the outback sun is until you're in it - day after day. And the thing is it's only going to get hotter the closer we get to Broome because that's really close to the equator. Anyway, I better get back to walking, because despite all the razza mattaz around the web and all, that is what this challenge is really about - walking!

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Hi there
It\'s now been nearly a month since I smoked and I\'m averaging nearly 16,000 steps a day. Very proud of myself (especially the non-smoking thing). The daylight saving is great because now I can walk the dog before and after work, so my average will just get bigger as my waist and chance of heart attack get smaller.

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Can I congratulate Ana - 28 Ocotober 2006 - good work - keep going - you can do it! There is so much to see when on your walk - just keep smiling when you are stepping it out - you will enjoy it so much more.

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Hi there,
I just started yesterday, already 6000 steps. Wish me luck..
SP

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Hi to all the new starters.. Wow there certainly has been an increase in stories which is great.

I have been doing 10000 since July 1 and I thoroughly suggest that you complete the health history. I do mine monthly as I am way too impatient to wait 3 months.

So far I have lost 12 cm between hips and waist, but only 1 kg... And drastically reduced my cholesterol levels... So don\'t rely on those scales, get a tape measure and you will see the real difference.

Good luck to all..

Kathy (Gold Coast)

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Hi. Sorry this is so long... I've only been logging my steps for just over a week and am working at slowly increasing my average steps per day. At the moment i'm averaging 4,629 steps per day with my maximum number of steps per day being just over 9,000. I have been suffering from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder since 1997, am extremely (morbidly) obese, and as well as suffering from a foot condition, have asthma which worsens on physical exertion and have "issues" with my lower back.

Because of my illnesses I have been on medication that messed my body up, and have gone on crash diets to try and fix it up... resulting in me not eating for months at a time and purging if I even thought of eating.

It's taken years for me to learn that this isn't healthy, but now I've come to that decision and decided that I wanted to make a stand against all the stuff that was snowballing from my lack of exercise and bad eating habits. I had heard of the 10,000 steps program through my sister and decided to get a pedometer to see how many steps I actually was doing a day.

Originally I thought that I would easily do 10,000 steps a day with the activities that I was already doing so I got a nasty surprise when I realised how few steps I was taking. Since then I have tried to ensure that I was walking every day and have managed to beat my goal of 5,000 steps every day but two this week.

Some of the extra activities that I've started doing as well as the walking include tae bo, swimming, and some cardio activities on another dvd. I'm also encouraging a friend of mine who wants to lose some weight for a wedding to join the program because that way we can help to motivate and inspire each other to meet our goals and hopefully exceed them.

As yet there has been no change in my weight, size or physical/mental health... but I know this is still early days and I have committed myself for the long haul.

Thank you to everyone who has shared their story. Your successes help inspire me on those days that I think I can't possibly take another step.

Ana

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Hi everyone in stepping world. Wow I did not think I could make the 10000 steps but shocked myself totally. I found myself dusting off the old step aerobics video, and walking instead of driving to the local shop. The more I stepped the more active I became. Before starting on this I was a real slug in the bug, now after 2 weeks I feel healthier, have more energy and will certainly keep stepping. I found myself going swimming, doing more things with the kids and grandkids. Oh and moving house and cleaning 2 houses inside and out certainly made those steps add up. There were days when I just dropped from exhaustion, but each day I found it easier to do more and more activities. I will continue to step along as it does increase your energy limit which was something I greatly needed.

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It was after my third hip replacement that I knew something had to change. Inspired by other personal fitness legends such as Grace Kelly and the legendary Herb Elliot I moved into a good space psychologically, prepared myself mentally, fitted a prosthesis to my left stub, and set off. I\'m now leading the workplace in personal fitness and hope to lead the workplace in the 10000 step challenge. If I can do it with only one real foot, anyone can!!

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Hi steppers, just a short line to tell you that I didn’t realise Bowen was so beautiful. I have been doing the 10000 steps around different parts of Bowen and have seen beautiful scenery I had never seen before. I have also come across a few small dogs in my travels and man don’t they make your feet move a bit faster and also get the heart rate up. What a feeling. I am enjoying doing the steps and happy walking to you all.

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Hi everyone,
I started the 10,000 steps program two weeks ago, on the same day I stopped smoking after 20 years. I haven\'t had a cigarette since and I am averaging 12,200 steps per day. I\'m not sure if I feel better yet and I haven\'t weighed myself or anything. This program is just one more thing I can focus on instead of smoking.

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I've been in this program for about 4 weeks now and I'm so proud to say that my average steps is about 14,000 a day! This is more excersise than I've ever done in my life and I'm very happy to say that I'm making a positive difference to my health and my life. I have now resolved to make a huge effort to change my diet from next week, because while I'm being very active, my eating habits are keeping me from really making a difference to my weight. Writing this here online is one way for me to commit, so wish me luck and keep up the inspiring stories and helpful hints! Happy stepping!

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Hi there gang,

I had a old treadmill I brought for "SHE WHO MUST BE OBEYED" (wife) for Christmas one year,
anyway guys you know the story, she went like a steam train for a week or two then the only exercise the treadmill was used for was the spiders doing pushups on.

I now have the treadmill setup under the house with a DVD player and TV. I put on a DVD and walk/run for a hour on so its great exercise.

Also men I know the footie is over but next season move the beer fridge. Put it in another room or move it upstairs, you will get more steps. The more you drink the more steps you get.

Captain Percy
The Pring Piggies.

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Hi everyone,
Just thought I'd give you an update. I am pleased to say that i have lost 8kg and feeling so much better for it. My jeans are beginning to get baggy. I'm feeling fitter. I can manage 10000 steps however i have noticed my toes are going numb on one foot. I'm hoping with more weight loss that this will disappear as i believe it is just poor circulation to the area (If anyone else suffers this let me know).I've chosen to have two walks a day instead of one big one, as this seems to help.

keep up the good work and keep on walking.

JAK

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yeeeeee,haaaaaaa, just clicked over my first million. G.D.S

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Well I started a much needed diet today, Im 80kgs and 173cms tall. My baby boy is now 8 months old and I think I can no longer use the excuse "oh Ive just had a baby!!" I have a good 10kgs to lose and I think this website is just the motivation I need. Wish me luck!!
Bye Emma

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Like the person who wrote on Sept 27, I also have asthma, am extremely overweight, have multiple joint and back problems, and have suffered from depression. Joining the 10000 steps program last year is one of the best things I ever did. I have lost weight, and both my physical and mental health have improved enormously. For the first time in decades I have experienced a hospital-free year.

Most people find it difficult to start a new good habit. Getting a friend to walk with you and increasing your steps a little bit each day helps. When I first began walking, I could only last a minute or two, now I can easily walk for more than an hour. Also walking somewhere nice, like a park, and varying my walks keeps my motivation higher.

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Hi everyone, just a quick note to say how great everyone is going on the 10000 steps, I had been walking with friends for a few months before joining (mainly to loose some much needed weight) and to try and get my own body back again. 10000 steps gave us that added incentive and I'm pleased to say I have gone from 94kgs to 69.6kgs (this took me 16 months to do). I can now average around 15000 steps a day, 19000 on a really good day plus extra activities which I was really missing like horse ridding, swimming and even bike ridding. My husband and kids are thrilled with my progress and my new look. Here is some advice for the people to think they cant do it, always think to yourself "I can do anything I want to do, one more step will not kill me" I have and I now feel great

Keep up the good work and keep on walking

Happy walker

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Hi again everyone Tony g. here. Just to give an update. Since joining I am still averaging approx. 17000 steps per day,which gives about 120000 steps per week. This is taking in to account any extra activity I do whilst not wearing the pedometer.

I do some heavy physical work at times which helps with fitness,as well as walking over 12000 steps on work days. I am hoping to reach 6000000 steps buy christmas. I know that over the christmas break, I will be on holidays so,my steps will more than likely drop off. But that will be the challenge for evryone I think, come to that time of year.

Anyway hope everyone is still enjoying the program, and benefiting from it. Keep on stepping, Tony g.

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I've just been on the site for a week and I'm trying to work my steps a day up from not quite 2000 a day. I'm extremely overweight, have asthma and arthritis in my knees along with suffering from depression. It is a struggle each day to try to get some walking in. The stories I've read have been inspiring, so that is good. I just need to keep that spark of inspiration going so that I can slowly increase my steps.
Thanks to all who have shared their stories, you are helping whether you know it or not!

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Hi everyone. What a wonderful and useful website i stumbled upon. I just started my program, it's been a week. I'm only averaging 9000 steps a day at the moment, however it's improving everyday.

I work in the public health industry and know too well how important an active lifestyle and healthy diet are for an individuals wellbeing.

With that said i haven't been the best role model. At 5'4", and 108kg (last week). I'm 103kg now thanks to my pedometer and new healthy eating program. I'm just lucky i have never had high blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugars (I'm 35). Just low self esteem and no motivation.

That was then and this NOW. My journey has begun and so too has that of many of my colleagues as i have become a provider. STAY TUNED.

Jak

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Well I finally made the 1 million step mark. Although I started using the site and took awhile to get into the habit of walking and recording it, it wasn't until I set a daily goal that I started to really improve.

It is important to set goals even the daily goal limit but it is even better to have goals to improve your your daily best, weekly best, monthly best or a date to hit your first million.

I wanted to get to 1 million by the 31 August and I made it and the feeling was very good. I told everyone around me that I was going to do it and I did. Now my next target is my 2nd million by 31 December (one month less than the first million took).

Another thing that motivated me was reading all the great stories of all the people that make the time to get 10000 steps in their day and I thought if they can do it, than I have no excuses.

Thanks for the great site and keep walking everyone and get others into it.

Cheers Noleen
Queensland, Australia

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Hi All,

So glad to see so many new people finding out about this great site.

Well I have been counting steps for two months now and I found out last night that my cholesterol levels have finally hit the normal range, even though I have taken medication for it for over 2 years, it never seemed to change.

My cholesterol has never before been below 7.8 (have been having it checked for about 14 years now)... yesterday my result was 4.8... Yeah...

Keep on walking...
Kathy

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I stumbled across this web site and immediately thought this is for me. Absolutely perfect, I love walking. Now I have a purpose, a goal to reach. Something to push me just that little bit further.
In just one week my jeans have gone from painfully tight to snug tight. What will happen in two weeks, a month or even a year.
I'm spreading the story of this site far and wide.
Thank you to the people behind this wonderful idea.

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Hey All,
I'm a 21-y-o woman, at 92kg, which sounds a little on the heavy side, and even more so when you realise that I'm 5'4"!!

I have had some health issues, (not related to weight) since I was 13, and these are only made worse by the weight. Like so many others, I've tried 'everything', that umbrella word, meaning about 50 things, for at least five minutes, or until I or my partner decide enough is enough.

I refuse to have powder-and-water-shake-meals, order food from diet companies, count calories, or attend a gym. The gym thing is a confidence issue. Don't ya just feel so FAT looking at all the people who are so fit?? Well, one foot in a gym and I feel like a heifer!

HOWEVER - I love walking, and have often wondered just how much more I need to do, aside from work and housework, to make it to the goal. So on with the new pedometer, and away we go. I must say a big 'thanks' to my Latin Dance teacher for adding a good 6000 steps to my wednesdays!!

I've only been at it a few days so far, so lets just see! I've got a ball in December for my partner's Regiment (yes, he's one of those wonderful men protecting our country, off all over the world for 7 months at a stretch), and for a REALLY BIG CHANGE would like NOT to be the fattest woman under 40! Lets see if 10 000 Steps and I can do it...

It's great not to be alone any more, and great work to everyone, you've inspired ME to try something new.

Luv u all
Kat

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Hi, i'm an aspiring AFL umpire and I enjoy running around the field for multiple reasons, fitness, teamwork building, knowledge of the laws, pay reward, increased social activities, but most of all its an important and key way to monitor my hard work with the 10,000 STEPS pedometer. ive had it on all throughout august and totalled a monster 220,280 steps in just the 1 month! for those who like statistics: it was a distance of 145.32km burning a massive 10,229.9 calories with an average days running being 15,734.29 steps or 10.38kms. Over the month i reached a maximum of 27,870 steps or 18.39km and a minimum of 8400 steps / 5.54km on a day during the month. I'm 173cm tall and weigh in at a stable 66kg with an average step length of 66cm. Over the course of next year I am looking forward to see how well I can manage energy consumption to energy output. But it just goes to show you that just because you are already fit doesnt mean that the pedometer is not for you. I thought the same until I put it to a researchable use and now I can improve each month and the evidence will show during finals selections when my fitness dominates and allows me to make clear,consistant,confident decisions during games. I never walk on the field without it now.

Thank you 10,000 Steps!

Anthony

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Hi all just to let people know how I have been doing. One of the benifits for me has been in waight loss. when we started I was 93Kls to day I hopped on the scales and I am presently 89.5 all in less than three months. great feeling.

I found these helped- Tips: walk with buddy - Drink water before and after walks - plan your walks for the week and review -celibrate small achivements -dont be critical of self. Stay positive.

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REPLY to "Sore Feet" 30th July

Firstly: Congratulations to everyone! I work in Helath Promotion for Qld Health and one of my roles is to promote 10,000 Steps. It is grea to read these stories and see how much it changes people's attitudes to physicl activity - and how it changes their life! People always want that "magic pill" for health. But people fail to realise that WE HAVE IT ALREADY: its called active lifestyles and healty eating!

Secondly: To Sore Feet: jsut a few things that spring to mind regardig feet.
1. make sure you have correct footwear - go to a sports store and get them fitted corectly and make sure they know what activity you are doing. I am a run and do aerobics and I have different shoes for each activity due to the different support required.
2. have you increased your activitiy dramatically? it is recommended that you increase your activity gradually at about 10-15% each week. This is especially important for people running as you don't want to overload your body - a 10% increase in distance is recommended.
3. are your shoes old? Old shoes have less support and less stability so look at getting some new ones if you are quite active. Shoes should be changed about 3-6 months.
4. what socks are you wearing? try to find socks that add cushioning. (coolmax or similar are good) I actually wear 2 pairs of socks when I run and I found that this reduces soreness.

Hope these tips provide you with some good advice. Happy stepping!
Renae
Senior Health Promotion Officer (Physical Activity) Tropical Population Health Unit- Townsville Renae_Gordon@health.qld.gov.au

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I have been doing the challenge for a month now and went in for a check up and I no longer have a high thyroid and do not have to take synthroid for it.
I have been on synthroid for five years.
I am now walking 20,000 steps a day and started with 10,000. I haven't lost any weight but I feel better and I'm no longer taking three naps a day.None now.I feel better than I have in years.

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Following Prostate Cancer Surgery late 2005 began fitness recovery in May 2006. Try to walk 12K 6 days a week with one day rest. Have completed Jetty to Jetty and Bridge to Brisbane as part of the program. Any Gentlemen out there over the age of 50 who has not had PSA test for prostate cancer I urge you to have one. (PSA - Prostate Specific Antigen, a simple blood test) It saved my life, if I had not been diagnosed when I was, I would be fighting for my life now. I received a lot of support from the Pros Can support group and all they asked in return was that I pass on the message as widely as I can. This I do with pleasure and gratitude.

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G'day. I am a semi-retired Secondary Teacher who, like many, has finally lost the 'battle of the bulge' through a combination of menopause, love of chocolate and a more sedentary lifestyle these days. I am a movie lover and spend way too much time sitting watching them!

A couple of years ago, I got quite sick while travelling overseas, lost about 6 kilos, then 4 or 5 more after joining a well-known food delivery program and trying to walk 10,000 steps a day - even bought a dog to give me a reason to walk but alas, I got lazy again and the weight is starting to creep back on as I find lots of excuses NOT to walk.

Today I found this site whilst looking for information on healthy exercise in yet another bid to get the kilos off before I leave for ANTARCTICA at Christmas. I don't want to be the middle-aged lady who has to be helped all the time because I am too unfit and lacking in agility to manage adequately.

I want to live till I die and as I plan to live to a ripe old age like my 89 year old mother, I am about to start again after finding this website.

WISH ME LUCK!

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It has been a month today, since joining the 10,000 steps program.

Well today I couldn't resist and did another health assessment... Wow! am I glad I did.. Since starting my weight has not changed, but I have dropped 3 cm from both my waist and hips... My resting heart rate has dropped by 20 bpm..

I am averaging over 12500 steps a day (even though I have a major drop over the weekend.. I am still hitting that mark as an average.

I am loving it.

On Sunday nights, I feel a bit bad that I haven't done much over the weekend, so I end up walking around the lounge room after everyone goes to bed. Last Sunday I did 248 laps around the 2 chairs in the lounge room.

I am right when I tell people that if I can do it, so can they.

I am a bit worried though about the upcoming hot months, does anyone else have ideas.

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Hi everyone,my name is tony.Like a couple of others,I joined the 10000 steps program as an initiative of Queensland Rail and a promotion for mens health week.So i have been in the program now for about 5 months,and have just clocked up two and a half million steps.Being that I lost my car in an acccident about a year and a half ago,so being on foot ever since I found that the walking is easy enough going to and from work and walking around the worksite,to make the 10000 steps per day.I am enjoying the challenges put forward each month,this month I am actually attempting to fit in twenty days at thirteen thousand.I have always been fairly fit and this is a way to keep up that mentality.Occasionally I would find on a lazy weekend that my step count is only about 3000 or so by the afternoon,so I make myself get outside and do a walk.This could be just around the block or if I am down on the steps,a half an hour walk to Toombul shopping centre and back.I hope that all the people in the program are getting enough encouragement and enjoyment out of the exercise.I have been reading some very inspirational stories over the last couple of months that prove,it is not just how far you travel physically,but how far you travel mentally and spiritually as well.Keep up the good work everyone, Tony G.

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Hi, I've been wearing a pedometer for years and recording my steps each night. I'd heard years ago that we needed to try to walk 10,000 steps each day & so I've attempted to do this,with a 2km swim every second day. How excited I was when I tripped upon your web site accidently, traded my old pedometer immediately for your 10,000 step one & off I trott. I feel wonderful, I'm NEVER at the Dr's. & love life. I'm 46, and have just purchased a home with lots of stairs & loving it.
G.D.S.

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I've been with 10000 Steps for quite a few years now and am knocking on 10 million steps! I'm a Rockhampton member and in the last year or so have taken to carrying a bag to pick up litter as I go along the Frenchville Track - so I keep both myself and the environment healthy. Rockhampton City Council are about to sponsor a new group of volunteers under the banner "Greensteps" with individual volunteers contracting to clean a local street or park they habitually walk in - we hope to launch this group in September 2006. Anyone interested in more details feel free to contact me.
Peter. e-mail: p.hallinan@cqu.edu.au

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hi all,
i was really excitted when i was given a pedometer!!!!(this is my first week) on an average day i do 19000-21000
which may sound crazy but i do it easily. im a school student so pretty active but every day consists of jogging in the morning and walking in the afternoons. and walking to meals but yeh. im very happy to know i have a active life!!!

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When I started 10,000 Steps my target was 1,000,000 steps by August 2006. I doubled that! 2,000,000 steps as at the start of August 2006. I never would have thought it possible. I am still at 86 kilo, and I am so happy with that having reduced my weight from 120 kilo from December 2004 to 86 kilo by October 2005 and maintaining that weight ever since. I gotta tell ya, I'm happy!

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During the month of May, my workplace had this 10,000 step competition I decided to join it. I was very surprised to find, how few a steps I took each day. Being a locomotive Driver, I spend most of the day on my rear end.

I entered the steps program, as a way to get myself motivated in doing more physical activity.

I started only doing 8515 steps per day, way below the 10,000, so I increased my walk route, and varied it, so it would not become boring. By the end of the second week I was averaging 10,199 steps.

The program at work has finished, but I’m doing the Individual challenges.

The program at work asked people to share their stories about the 10,000 steps program, My story was one they picked as being a good one, my prize was a $50 voucher from Amart sports, so as they had a sale on, I got myself a good pair of walking shoes with the voucher.

M. Digby
Queensland, Australia

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Hi steppers
i started back in april but really slacked off due to some family things going on. But im back on track once again now.
I got the dog lead this morning and my 11 yr son and off we went for a 40min walk the poor dog was pooped before us hehe.
anyway i managed to do over 7000 steps but find that my feet are really sore was wondering if anyone else has this problem as well and what have they done or tried to do to fix it. i do have a good pair of runner with air in them so it isnt that but was wondering if it was cause of my weight. I started off at 120.7 kilo and down to 115 which im happy with so far.

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Hello Everybody,
I'm an obese "Bionic Hippy Lady! [Bilateral Hip Replacements] Riddled with Osteo Arthritis and various other unhealthy ailments!
I found this site accidently while looking for something else on the 'net one day, so I went out and bought the 10,000 Steps Pedometer and came back here to register. Here is a Community Centre on a Housing Estate Where I do Volunteer work running an Internet Cafe!
I must be the most sedentary person ever! I found that when I have a whole day at home I don't move much at all - I'm flat out like a lizard drinking recording 500 steps on the Pedometer - usually less! So I'm sorting out ways and means to up the Numbers! I've started reading through other's stories to get a few ideas I can try.
One sugesstion though came to me from a lady at a weight watchers class I used to attend. She uses the Sydney White Pages Directories - without unwrapping them - as a step stool. So as our White pages have just been delivered I think that might be a good way for me to start. Especially when I am spending the day inside.
I'll keep you all posted when and if I think I'm getting it right!
yours in Walkies
Cathrene

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Hi All (very long - sorry),

I kept hearing the ads on the radio about getting a pedometer from your local library.. I kept on thinking "I wonder how many steps I do each day". Knowing that it easily had to be 10,000 steps.

I organised to borrow a pedometer from the local library and I was shocked..most days I only did about 3500 - 4500 steps.. surely that must be wrong, because I am up and down all day.

As soon as I started wearing the pedometer, I quickly noticed some little things that I could do that would increase my steps each day..

Instead of driving around trying to find the closest carpark to work. Now I head straight to the back corner and have no problem with a carpark. I no longer cross roads on a diagonal, I walk to the end then cross in a straight line. No more standing at the photocopier, I take the opportunity to walk the 154 steps to empty the recycling bin no matter how little paper is in it. I only take the lift (one floor) if I am carrying something heavy)

After 2 weeks (last Saturday) I had to take the pedometer back, but before I did I went to the local sports store and bought myself one..

This week I have started an even bigger increase, a very brisk walk (approx 3200 steps in a half hour) at lunch time. Which for me is a really big thing. But I can feel the benefits already. I have gotten less red in the face after each walk (ok so I know it has only been 3 days but I have to start somewhere). I am even sleeping better and waking up more refreshed.

The biggest thing for me though, is I am keeping this all a secret from my husband. He knows I am trying to do 10,000 steps a day, but has no idea that I am passing that goal each and every day or that I am walking at lunch time. He is not very encouraging when it comes to this kind of thing, but then I don't blame him with all the 'exercise regimes' I have had over the years. I want to wait until he can see a change in me, then I will be able to proudly tell him, just how many steps I have done.

I found this site today and signed up straight away, then went on to sign up for one of this months challenges. What a nice surprise, when I came home and entered all my steps from the past 2 and a half weeks to find that I am almost 50% of the way through the challenge.

So I am just going to keep putting one foot in front of the other and see just how far I can go.

Have a great day
Kathy

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That is amazing Noelene I am no stranger to back pain myself have had a back issue since i was 10 years old but i do agree with you walking helps you feel great. And i don't know about you but it helps me sleep better too. Keep up the good work.
From Trudy

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Hi fellow walkers.
I joined 10,000 steps a day in April after hearing about the website on the radio whilst in Sydney. I have completed the Kokoda Trail Challenge for April and averaged 10,000 - 12,000 steps a day.
In May I had back surgery and was dismayed to have to step back my stepping. Now 6 weeks later I am back to 12,000 steps a day and increasing all the time. Walking is SO GOOD for bad backs. You build up the muscles and hence reduce stress on the discs.
My favourite walk is 4 km alomg the Hume and Hovell walking track beside Mannus Lake near my town of Tumbarumba. I take my two dogs with me and they love the walk as much as I. There are pelicans, swans and ducks to watch over as we walk and plenty of rabbits for the dogs to chase... a few roos and wombats and the odd brumby grace the area.
Get out into the outdoors and enjoy walking yourself into fitness. Noelene

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Thanks to all you people who have shared your inspiring stories, I read them all and feel new energy to keep trying. I have found that this programme has helped me, I only have a few kilos to lose but am unfit and tired. Recently I have found that I'm not even tempted to have an afternoon snooze, even if I have the time. I feel so much better although I'm only averaging aroud 8800 steps per day. So guys even if time and circumstance stops you getting in your full 10000 steps it is worthwhile. At this lower level it has been easier to make a habit of it.
Happy walking everyone.

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Hi,

I've been a bit sick over the last couple of years and am now just starting to feel normal. Of course I still have days when all I want to do is curl up and eat choccy biscuits, but on the whole I'm good. 10,000 Steps is giving me an incentive to keep moving and that can't be a bad thing.

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I have managed to lose 30kg over a period of 5 months (120kg to 90kg). The greatest benefit I have achieved is the ability to cope with stress in my high pressure job resulting in a increase in productivity in a relaxed state. Also, by walking 10,000 steps a day, I have realised three major life goals over the past 5 months; to get to my ideal weight, to obtain work in Europe and the ability to manage the ultimate renovation of my house. I look and feel FANTASTIC!

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Hi Everyone,

I am just so excited I just clocked my first million (1009861 to be exact) and it took me 56 days, I am so wrapped. Bring on my second million.

Keep up the good work everyone all it takes is to keep putting one foot in front of the other, and it will happen.

Stride it out.

TRUDY

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Hi again,

I have been walking now for approx 1 month (on treadmill) as this seems to work for me with running a home business plus it doesn't give me the "it's too hot, it's too cold, it's too!!!!!" line of routine. I walk at least an hour a day on the treadmill each day except Saturday - I let myself have a day off and this is the day I normally do my shopping & cleaning and therefore I usually get quite a bit of exercise in anyway.

The benefits so far have been great - lower back pain starting to ease off - foot pain starting to ease off - not getting out of breath when I move anymore and this has all happened in such a short time. I thought at my size and my age (46) this would have taken much longer. I can feel clothes fitting more loosely (I refuse to weigh myself because in the past this has really messed with my resolve - you know you do all the right things one week, refuse Aunt Maggie's Scones & Cream, eat lettuce leaves all week and gain 1 kg - I know I'm overweight and therefore know this is a long term plan not an instant fix so at this point I don't need to scales to tell me I need to lose weight).

Good luck to everyone - keep up the great work and for those of you who read the stories - share yours - you may not think it is worth reading and some people may also feel the same way - but it is great to write stuff down even if only for yourself - it helps to motivate yourself!!!

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Hi all,

I thought I would share my story with you all as my friends and family have all found it inspiring.In 1994 age 24, I weighed 126kg with 10% body fat, I looked and felt great. Since several injuries laid me on my back for a few years (me personally feel that it just became a habit not to exercise and I became lazy) put on a lot of weight.

In November 2005 I had my 20th operation on my right leg and had to weigh myself before the operation. The scales that I had at home would not record my weight, so I took a guess of around 140kg (Oh how wrong was I!)My doctor said to me before my operation that my leg was just a quality of life issue now and that if I really wanted to turn things around I would have to get off my bum and do something about it. As usual not listening to the doctors advice is something that I am very good at.

After not listening to my doctor in November, I was over the park with my son in Febuary 06 playing with the football. I ran out of breath and started to hyperventilate. This obviously gave me a large scare. I decided that I would get a pedometer just to prove to people that I do walk every day and that I really was not as unfit and overweight that everybody made me out to be. I read the 10000 step website and said to myself how easy is this, I will be able to do 10000 steps a day easily, without any extra walking. Well my first started and finished and I had logged 3583 steps. Obviously I was shocked and knew something had to change for myself and my young family.

I started on the 10000 step program in Febuary 2006 and I haven't looked back. After 2 weeks of walking I stepped on my bathroom scales and I weighed 149.8 kg, so I am guessing that I was as high as about 155 kg. I originally set my target at 6000 steps a day but since the first day I am proud to say, have never been that low.

Currently I am 113kg as of 21 June 06, yes that's right 42 kilo loss, I walk a minimum of 10000 steps a day now plus jog for 6 kilometers every night and go to gym for 4 hour and half sessions per week. The weight loss is one thing to feel proud about, the way my leg feels is something to be relieved about, the time I am having with my family is something that I will never forget, and the great thing is....I am going to be around a lot longer to enjoy them.

I hope this inspires someone because if it wasn't for stories like this I would be 165kg's now eating myself to death. Thankyou 10000 steps and everyone who partisipates.


Regards


Craig
Redcliffe Queensland

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Hello All

I am thanking QR for giving me this opportunity to participate in this personal achievement course. Today, I have reached 1,004,146 steps, and I am very delighted with this achievement.

I had been constantly working towards this good course and this exercise has helped me tremendously without taking time out to go to Gym or take up other activies in my busy schedule. Just getting up and about and keeping those muscles moving is the way to go.

I feel light and healthy and feel more energetic which is helping me to enhance my day to day activities at work as well as home.

Thanks.

Malika Anand

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Hi everyone,
I am just so excited to find out that i have reduced my weight by 3kg, my waist sized by 7cm and my hips by 9cm between the 4th of May 06 to the 19th of june 06. To think that i used to think that you had to have the right metabalism or go to the gym for hours how wrong i was. All it has taken is to change my mind set to put my health first and to realise that their are really no excuses because all you are doing is cheating yourself out of your life.

I am currently doing the june challenge of 20 days at my goal of 20,000. School holidays have given me extra challenges and i am taking them in my stride like to go for my 7 kilometer walk i have to put my five and two year old in the pram and off i go on flat ground it isn't to bad but up hills is fun, i just keep thinking there goes more calories.

One day i will reach my ideal weight and live the rest of my life healther but i am enjoying this process and have committed my self to a long slow process but it is happening quicker than i thourght.

Keep putting one foot in front of the other and we can all reach our goals, not to say there won't be bad days but you start to cope a little better each day.

Stride it out

TRUDY

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Hello to my fellow steppers.

I am really pleased to share my story as I have previously found your real- life stories to be quite inspiring . They helped me to get serious about my health. I have been stepping now for 19 weeks and averaging in excess of 14000 steps each day. I am 67 years of age and have a history of heart problems; had quadruple coronary artery by-pass surgery in 1980 and again in 2000.
Prior to logging on to the 10000steps program I was overweight (100 kilograms) and not feeling very healthy. I have now lost 12 kilograms and I am feeling fantastic. I am forever looking for excuses to do a few more steps. I have found the pedometer to be a terrific device in that it takes the guess work out of the equation and stops me kidding myself that I am doing enough exercise. On a recent New Zealand holiday I managed to keep up my walking and enjoyed the discipline of logging on and reporting my results .It is a great motivator. I had a heart echo scan last November which showed I had some real problems. My cardiologist arranged for a further scan last month and he e-mailed me to say there was a major improvement which he could not explain. The fact is he was not aware of the life-style changes I had made .When I told him what I had been doing he understood the major health benefits achieved through getting out stepping and of course adopting a sensible diet.

Good luck and good health to my fellow steppers.
Bob Pulford

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It seems summer has arrived in Boulder City, Nevada, USA. The next few days should see temperatures of 104 degrees fahrenheit (40 celsius). Temperatures will remain hot for the next 100 days or so. This little town of 15,000 residents has built quite a few walking paths and created biking and walking lanes on many roadways. There are several short hikes in the mountains that separate Boulder City from the Las Vegas valley & an old railroad bed has been converted into a walking trail that ends up near Hoover Dam. Walking about 15,000 steps a day has been a challenge since the weather turned hot. Generally the early morning hours work out best. I have a treadmill, but find it a bit boring. Any suggestions any of you might have to help combat the heat would be appreciated. Thanks for letting me track my steps on your excellent website.

Very best regards
dpmartin@amerityre.com

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It's great to read all your stories, lately due to illness,work, assignments and laziness my average has slipped. Reading your comments is motivating. I have now passed the 2million steps mark (Started mid Oct 05)and hope to get close to another 2million before the end of 12 months. After an initial weight loss my weight has remained stable and within acceptable limits (although losing another couple of kilos wouldn't hurt). The I-Challenges are helpful on days when I feel I can't be bothered, it's great that you have different levels to choose from. Keep walking everyone it's worth the effort.

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hi all you steppers
i have just been reading some of the latest stories, how wonderful they are very inspirational. i am becoming more adventerous, and have started joining the challenges, completed the first one for may, and have now entered the june one, and put up my goal steps to stretch my challenge.
so keep stepping everyone and join the challenges.
bye
linda
xx

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Having retired to the seaside - I had visions of having a swim in the briney every day, and becoming that silly old lady who locals see every day having a swim, no matter the weather.



Well, only 6 years after moving here, I've suddenly decided it seems stupid to live so close to the beach and not make the most of it.

I don't like sitting on the sand any longer so I have been having a daily 'bathe' - kicking the legs and making a few splashes - giving my eyes a nice salt water wash-out and doing my own aerobic exercises, while watching all the others walking - while I've got the beach to myself.

Have met a nice younger lady who used to teach swimming and she has been giving me free lessons and got to speak with a man of a certain age, like myself, paddling on a 'ski paddle' - which I also hoped I'd get on, when first moving here.

So tomorrow, it;s off to Anglesea to GO RIDE A WAVE to check out the 'ski paddle' purchase - which will just give my tubby little body the upper body work-out I so need!

All that, combined with having gone to a Naturopath and having my blood group checked and told what foods I should be eating, and the ones I should be avoiding - combined with added calcium, minerals etc.

I'm fighting fit! Full of energy - and rarin' to go!!!

Where? I don't really want to travel, and forego my new physical regime which is making such a difference to my life, but who knows, I might just become so fit, I might be able to tackle a more energetic holiday than the Coach Tours I've been used to.


Wow - Why don't you try it with me!



If you're not far from the sea - be a devil - go and have a salt water bathe - even when the weather isn't very good - it;s amazing how quickly your body adjusts and when you come out - you're as warm as toast!

I actually bought a Surf Ski at Anglesea and lugged it down into the shallows - it was towards the end of Summer so there weren't too many good days for me to try it out however, I had so much fun - falling off - and breaking out into fits of laughter - I figure I did my exercise that way.

Next Summer - look out!!! He Gwendamay comes on her surf ski!


Join me - I dare you!



Gwendamay

Portarlington

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Hi, I haven't actually started recording my steps yet but will do so after reading the inspriational stories here. I am 45 and lead a very sedentary lifestyle - my husband and I run our own business and I am the only office staff and therefore find that most days I am sitting in front of the computer for 12 to 14 hrs. Over the years obviously I have put on weight until now I am completely unhappy with myself. Fortunately a week ago I decided I would like to purchase a treadmill as getting out early in the morning is difficult as often our phones will ring early in the morning and we are straight on the job but I thought if I had a treadmill I could go and do 10 minutes during the day to give me a break from the computer (I suffer from sore lower back and sore feet - no wonder I here some of you say!). Anyway to my surprise - I wack on a DVD in front of my treadmill and in the first week have managed to do no less that 2.8km each day (I need to wear my pedometer to check the step count)with no great problems at all. In fact I am amazed at how quickly my fitness levels are increasing - for me to have walked that far a week ago would have left me breathless - now just warm! and quite able to carry on a conversation. I do find I am a little more stiff and sore in the mornings on waking but once I am up and about I am feeling better. I can even feel my posutre changing slightly. I have tried walking the pavements before but where I live doesn't have footpaths and the likes and the roads are very uneven and gravelly so have found the treadmill a perfect compromise and obviously I will not have an excuse when the weather is hot or cold or inbetween. All of you keep up the good work and I know I will be able to come back at a later date and advise of good progress.

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Hi All

Taking this Challenge of participating in this 10,000 Steps had proven to be beneficial to me in my day to day activities.

I have experienced a level of difference in my overall health and wellbeing which makes me feel lighter and more energetic.

Since this program has helped me so much, I will continue to target 10,000 steps a day.

Thanks for giving me this opportunity to participate this this great course. It had been a wonderful experience and a chellenging one too.

Malika Anand
Admin. Officer

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Well done to Trudy the mother of 2 who has depression. You are an inspiration.

I have fallen off the wagon a bit with my walking in the last few months and it was great to read how important it is to take lots of opportunities to move about as you can.

Im struggling with an increased work load, being a mum and a whole lot of other personal stresses. Time to dust off the pedometer again. I forget how much better I feel and cope when I exercise. Thanks.

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I am thirteen and have always been the chubby person I wish I wasn't. I had to face it - I was fat, unhealthy, I had a short attention span and a very short temper and my BMI was on the brink to the status 'Overweight'. One day, my brother came home with this pedometer that he had recieved to do a survey for the government for them to know how active kids are in QLD. He gave it to me after the survey was completed and I logged on to the website printed on the front of the pedometer. I read lots of articles and stories and came to a decision that I was to become fitter and healthier after I discovered that the average steps per day I did was around 5,000. I deleted those old day out of my step log and started afresh. I have now got an average daily steps of 12,500. I am losing 0.3kg a week and I am getting better marks at school and I can fit into the clothes that used to show my belly. If I can do it, you definetly can!!! Just think that in a few months, you will look like what you've always wanted to look like - it's an encouraging thought. Another hint is learn what fat is. This way, you know what you've got to do to lose it.
squizzie (:

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Hi, thanks for this great website. I started using my program this month and am already up to 353,321 steps and it blew me away to think that is 264.99 kilometres. My biggest thing I am learning is that there are so many opportunities to walk, like if you take the kids to the park don't just sit and watch walk around the play equipment, if you are stuck at home walk around the house, if you watch TV get up during the advertisments walk around the room. All you need to do is keep moving because every step you take is another step to a healthier life. I am a mother of two and suffer deperession and you don't realise how much a walk can help you mentally and physically I started walking my little girl to school which was 4km a day, and I have worked up from there. Since January I have reduced my weight by 15kg that is only by walking and drinking more water. So don't ever give up keep walking and i will leave you all with my motto "There is no such word as can't it is can not and all knots can be undone."

Stride it out

From TRUDY

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Hello from Oregon, USA. 22 May 2006 marks the 1 year anniversary of my start to the 10,000 step program. I've logged 4.3 million steps so far and have seen my weight drop by approximately 30 pounds.

In order to get my 10,000+ steps each day, I started walking my son to and from school. The unexpected benefit is that we have extra time together to talk about what is on his mind. I thought he would find the walks drudgery, but he prefers walking to riding the bus.

It has been an excellent year. I'm proud of the steps I've made to make my life heathier and I look forward to the coming year.

Thanks for such an excellent website!
Ellen W.

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hi everyone i started walking after having a heart operation 9 years ago i have been walking 5 days a week till i started the 10,000 steps progam on the 9\4\06 now i walk 7 days a week, have increased my daily walking 3times my origonal distance since starting the 10,000 steps program

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8 months and over 2 million steps later, I am still going strong. 18 months ago I was 112 kilo, I am now down to 86 kilo and I been able to maintain this weight with sensible diet and walking as often as I can when I can for the past 10 months, which means utilising a bit of time management, but I walk over my required 10,000 steps nearly every day. Its a fun way to maintain my fitness level and weight.

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Hi everyone
I have been a stepper for a couple of years now and have reached the over 4mill mark. I intend to keep on stepping, as it has helped to improve my health both physically and mentally. Being in this program has also helped, by making sure i have over 10,000steps to put down every day as that is my daily health goal.
So keep stepping everyone, as it is you that benefits.
Happy stepping
Linda
xx

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Saw a quote the other day and just had to share it.
"What a crazy world we live in. Cars are a necessity and walking is a luxury???"

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I only started in October 05.....and despite only being half way to a million steps I am starting to notice that my average steps walked per day is increasing and there are more times in a month that I manage to get to the 10,000 steps....and one day I even managed 20,000 steps. I am not very consistent but it is on the increase and I feel proud of myself that I have started, and I don't beat myself up when I am not able to walk as much as I wanted to in a day or week.

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I started walking in mid October, and towards the end of January completed my first ONE MILLION STEPS. My average has slipped a little in the hot weather to about 9500 per day but I hope to pull it up again as the weather cools.
I have not dieted but have lost about a kilo a month and feel so much better.
So here is to the second million!! Keep walking everybody.

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I am a recent subscriber to this program but always enjoyed walking.
The accurate pedometer helps a lot. I work from home and sit at a computer so this reduces my opportunities to exercise. So I thought, until I decided that pacing during phone calls would add useful steps to the tally. And it is fun to do !

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Yesterday I purchased a pedometer and today I logged onto the 10,000 steps website! Like thousands of others I have again made the new years resolution to improve my fitness levels and lose weight! I have just had my second child and decided that enough is enough...not only do I want to improve my fitness levels but I want my kids to appreciate and adopt a healthy lifestyle too! What better way to achieve this than by practising what I preach? I am amazed at how many steps chasing a 2 yr old can clock up in a day...imagine how many steps could be achieved if I also made an effort to walk at least 30 mins every day!? Hopefully this year I will succeed with my new years resolution and look forward to the benefits.

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Hello fellow walkers! I started this year to try walking 10,000 steps a day. I love walking but find it challenging to find the time, or should I say to make the time! There seems to always be something else I should do...I am a wife of 20 years, mother to 4 children and sister to 5 siblings. After sitting behind a desk for 6 years, I gained a lot of weight in my midsection that I am determined to remove. I live in Maryland, USA right on the top of the Chesapeake Bay. I walk three times a day - either into our little quaint town or along the waters edge in our local park. I am grateful for this site as it connects me with others like myself trying to stay motivated enough to get healthy and in shape. Thanks!

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Hi Everyone,
I have been an On and Off walker for several years so I know the benefits to my health, weight and general
well being. Like many other people, I attack my walking like a fanatic and then when life gets busy or challenging I let it slide. I have decided this year to take the advice of the experts and make permanent lifestyle changes that will assist me as I age. 2006 is going to be my year to permanently incorporate walking into my life. One day I want to be one of those fanastic old people you see who walks for miles and looks and feels great.

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Hi everyone,
happy new year. Ive had a pedometer for a while and have decided to get serious in using it. Ive placed it on my bedside table and put it on first thing. It really motivates me to do more incidental walking such as running around after my 3 year old. Playing chasings, walking to the shops for milk, going for a walk at lunchtime when Im at work (since I commute and its hard to do in the evening) and gardening. Ive starting doing yoga in the early mornings as well and this is helping to get me going and avoid being stiff.

To ensure I get my steps up on the days I dont work Im going for a 30 minute walk after dinner which is a great way to unwind and think about things. Im finding I have greater energy. Im keeping my focus away from weight loss and thinking about other goals such as improving energy, muscle strength, general fitness and just a general feeling of wellbeing. Im finding that its also helping me control sugar cravings for chocolates and biscuits.
No need for the gym the pedometer is a cheaper option.

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Hi everyone,
I am Andrea and I've just started the STEPS programme. Having had a hip replacement 2 years ago at 39 and have up to now been doing RPM classes (Cycling classes) 4 days a week but feel like I need more to shift the weight.
It may take me a while to make that million as I can't walk as fast and far as some but I will get there one step at a time.

Good luck to all.

Hugs Andrea

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Hi ... Happy New Year! I have not walked in months and today I put my pedometer on and went for a 40 minute walk. I was mad with myself before I went for a walk and I came back feeling calmer. 2006 is the year I will start to have "ME TIME" where I do exercise for myself so I can be proud of my body and what I can achieve. This afternoon was the "last straw" I was about to cut another slice off of my Darrell Lea Christmas nougat pudding, I was about to put in it my mouth when my Husband walked in and started to laugh at what I was about to do! I burst into tears and thought to myself I have to stop kidding myself that eating little pieces does not add up. If I exercise I can eat everything in moderation but when I don't exercise the old saying rings true "a minute on the lips a lifetime on the hips." Then and there I put on my trainers and pedometer and started to walk again .... my goal is 30-45 minutes 6 days a week! Now I can't wait to reach 1 million steps in the comming months! Happy walking .....

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