WHY 10K?

I absolutely love the sport of Double Dutch and all of the benefits associated with it, but my walking skills trump my jumping skills any day! Because I have NEVER enjoyed working out, but I do think staying in shape is important- walking outside has been my exercise of choice for most of my adult life! One summer a few years ago I challenged myself to walk 10,000 steps by the end of every day- and since then, between walking (whenever Chicago weather permits), going to 40+ Double Dutch meetups a few times a week, watching my portion sizes, sleeping at least 6 hours a night and only drinking water- I have managed to maintain my health pretty well!

Walking 10,000 steps a day is a common goal for many people who want to improve their physical activity level and overall health.

Here are some of the benefits of walking 10,000 steps a day:

1. Improved cardiovascular health: Walking is a moderate-intensity aerobic activity that can help to improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and improving cholesterol levels.

2. Weight management: Walking can help to burn calories and support healthy weight management. Walking 10,000 steps a day can help to burn around 400-500 calories, depending on factors such as age, weight, and walking speed.

3. Stronger bones and muscles: Walking is a weight-bearing activity that can help to improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. It can also help to strengthen leg muscles and improve overall mobility.

4. Improved mood and mental health: Walking can help to reduce stress and improve mood by releasing endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Regular physical activity such as walking has also been linked to a reduced risk of depression and anxiety.

5. Improved brain function: Walking can improve cognitive function and may help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults.

Overall, walking 10,000 steps a day can provide numerous health benefits and is a great way to support overall physical and mental well-being.

So let’s do this! Join our 40+ Double Dutch Club 10K by the end of the day challenge and let’s walk all the way up to the National Play Date!

Here’s all you need to do:

1. Set a personal goal to walk 10,000 steps by the end of every day (track your steps with your cellphone, Fitbit, Apple Watch or pedometer) If you don’t make it to 10K, don’t worry! Just do what you can!

2. Screenshot a picture of yourself in your 40+ DDC gear as well as a pic showing your steps and post on the 40+ DDC group page

3. Add hashtag #10KbytheEndOfTheDay and #40pluswalkingchallenge

4. Repeat the next day! And the next! And the next!

Come on! Everybody walk your body! Everybody walk!