10 ways to make walking a pleasurable routine

Call it the threshold barrier: taking that first step is always the hardest. Sometimes, with life so busy, you just don't think to exercise. Other times, you know you should but lack the gumption. Here are some steps that can help.

1. Opt for nice. Walk in the prettiest area in your town (or the next town over), even if it means you need to drive there.

• That could include downtowns, parks, school campuses, or residential areas.

2. Find a regular walking partner. You're more likely to get out of bed on cold winter mornings or skip the cafeteria in favour of a lunchtime walk if someone is expecting you.

3. Pump up the volume. Research proves it: listening to music while walking helps you walk longer.

4. Pick a charity. Sign up for a charity walk. Or donate a dollar for every kilometre (0.6 miles) you walk for the next two weeks to a nonprofit group you believe in.

• Who thought exercise could be tax deductible?

5. Walk for entertainment one day a week. Walk through the zoo, an art museum, or an upscale shopping mall. First circle the perimeter of your location at your usual brisk pace. Then wander through again more slowly to take in the sights.

6. Take the entire family on your daily walks. You will be modelling good fitness habits for your children, and it's cheaper than paying a sitter.

7. Once a week, complete your errands on foot. If you live far from town, drive to within two kilometres (1.2 miles) of your destination, park, and walk the rest of the way there and back.

8. Explore your world. Stroll down streets in your own neighbourhood that you've never been on, or check out the hiking trail in a nearby park.

• Varying your terrain will keep you mentally engaged and work different leg muscles, improving the effectiveness of every outing.

9. Take a dog with you. Once your dog gets used to your routine, he or she will never let you forget when it's time for your walk.

• Don't have a dog? Offer to walk an elderly neighbour's dog twice a week.

10. Put your favourite walking shoes by the door at night. That way, you'll see them first thing in the morning.

• They'll remind you that getting out there is a priority.

So head outdoors for that fresh air, vitamin D and that dopamine fix, all benefits of walking outdoors. Do you really need another reason?