It’s human nature to always be ready to jump on the next “new thing” . . . whether it’s a diet that everyone is raving about, an exercise program that promises to get rid of cellulite or (finally!) the skin cream that will erase wrinkles as soon as you spot them. If something seems too good to be true, it’s usually not.
This time, instead of keeping your eyes, ears and hopes focused on the magic solution that’s lying in wait around the corner, how about doing something entirely new: go back to the basics.
The most important lesson I learned when researching and interviewing experts for “The Best of Everything After 50” is this: it’s the small, simple changes that can have the biggest impact on aging with health, vitality, beauty, and grace . . . which is why I recommend you run out (no pun intended) and buy this (or stay put and get it online!):
Yes, it’s a basic pedometer. The kind you wear to count your steps. 10,000 to be exact.
Walking 10,000 steps (roughly five miles) every day is an effective way to lose weight and keep it off. You will burn calories, strengthen your lower body, exercise your heart and feel really good. For most of us, our daily routine doesn’t include 10,000 steps. We have to make a concerted effort to get out there and walk. When you’re up for it, add a few minutes of gentle, slow running into your walking routine. Before you know it, you’ll be calling yourself a runner! 
That’s how I started running a few years ago, after I turned 50, and last year to celebrate my 55th birthday I ran in the NYC Marathon.
It doesn’t take much to get healthier, fitter, happier. Just put one foot in front of the other . . . and see where life takes you.
3 comments