Corporate Fitness and Active Aging

We spend a large amount of our day sitting at our desks, meetings, or commuting, and it is easy for movement to take a backseat. What if walking could have a significant impact on how we feel and perform each day? Aiming for 10,000 steps a day is not just about fitness: it is about boosting energy, reducing stress, and improving focus throughout your day. By turning walking into a daily habit, you are not only supporting your physical health and longevity but also creating a clearer mind to show up at your best both inside and out.

For years, 10,000 steps a day has been the gold standard for daily activity and for good reason. Hitting this goal consistently offers meaningful rewards that go far beyond just movement. The most immediate benefit is a greater caloric burn. You can burn anywhere from 400-600 calories, dependent on body weight, walking speed, and terrain. That is before the additional calories you will burn throughout your day. Beyond calorie burn, walking 10,000 steps a day enhances your cardiovascular health, which becomes more important as you age to help reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Another key factor as we get older is the natural decline in metabolism. While the decrease is inevitable, consistent physical activity, especially hitting the 10,000-step goal consistently, can help slow the rate of decline and improve your body’s ability to convert food into energy. While on the topic of energy, walking regularly will improve your mental clarity and boost your mood, offering a daily dose of “feel good” and focus. Additionally, regular walking at this volume and intensity improves sleep quality, helping you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up more refreshed.

In addition to the immediate rewards as mentioned above, consistently walking 10,000 steps will play a huge role in long-term health and wellness. One of the most impactful being weight management. Walking at this volume will help maintain a healthy body weight through increased caloric expenditure and improved metabolism. This avenue of movement is a low-impact way to stay active without the intensity of high-impact workouts. Walking also plays a key role in supporting cardiovascular health by helping to lower blood pressure and improve circulation. Mentally, the act of walking can reduce anxiety, reduce symptoms of depression, and promote a sense of calm. These benefits are valuable in today’s fast-paced world, where stress and burnout are becoming the new normal. Furthermore, walking contributes to longevity by reducing chronic diseases and supporting overall health, improving quality of life.

Reaching 10,000 steps a day is easier said than done but here are four helpful tips:

• Break it up throughout your day: start with a morning walk, take movement breaks between meetings and tasks, and wind down with an evening stroll.
• Park farther from the entrance to the store or work.
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Make it social: invite a coworker for a walking meeting, join a walking group, or walk with your family to start or end your day. Setting clear, achievable goals is key.

Walking enhances functional fitness by improving balance, coordination, and joint mobility, which will help you stay independent and active. The immediate and long-term effects of this metric weighed against the low risks make it simple: choose movement, prioritize your health, and commit to yourself. Lace up your shoes, take the long way, and embrace the journey. The path to better health happens one step at a time.

The holidays should be a season filled with joy, but they can also bring stress and emotional overwhelm from busy schedules, family dynamics, and heightened expectations. Staying emotionally balanced during this time is essential for preserving your mental well-being.

Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for managing holiday stress. By staying present in the moment, you can ease anxiety and negative emotions. Even dedicating just 5–10 minutes a day to mindful breathing, meditation, or simply noticing your surroundings can help you feel more grounded and at peace. This mindset can also help when family gatherings bring the pressure to host or create the “perfect” holiday. Unrealistic expectations often lead to frustration or disappointment, so try embracing imperfection—focus on meaningful connections and remind yourself that shared moments matter far more than flawless details.

Physical activity and rest play important roles in emotional balance. Exercise not only benefits your body but also boosts endorphins—the brain’s “happy chemicals”—which can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression (Rebar et al., 2015). Whether it’s a brisk walk, a workout, or playing a sport with loved ones, movement can help lift your mood. Likewise, getting enough sleep is crucial. A lack of rest can increase stress, irritability, and cognitive fatigue. According to the National Sleep Foundation (2020), maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and aiming for 7–9 hours each night supports both mental and physical well-being.

Practicing gratitude and managing your time can also reduce stress. Taking time to reflect on what you’re thankful for helps redirect focus away from worry and negativity. Try keeping a gratitude journal or sharing what you appreciate with family and friends during holiday gatherings. Meanwhile, avoid overcommitting yourself. The season can fill up quickly, and saying “yes” to everything can lead to burnout. Plan your schedule thoughtfully, prioritize what matters most, and leave room for rest, self-care, and flexibility.

Setting healthy boundaries and maintaining social connections are key to emotional wellness. With family obligations and social pressures at their peak, it’s important to communicate your limits to protect your mental health. Boundaries prevent burnout and help you stay centered. At the same time, positive social interactions can help counter stress. Research shows that strong relationships support mental health and resilience (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). Make time to connect—whether in person, over the phone, or through virtual gatherings—and reach out for support if you start feeling isolated.

Finally, remember to treat yourself with compassion. Being kind to yourself, especially during stressful moments, fosters resilience and calm. As Kristin Neff’s research (2003) shows, self-compassion reduces anxiety and helps people cope more effectively. Treat yourself with the same understanding you’d offer someone you care about. It can also help to be mindful of your social media habits. The constant stream of curated holiday moments can trigger comparison and stress, so try limiting screen time and focusing more on real-world connections (Przybylski & Weinstein, 2017).

Staying emotionally balanced during the holidays takes awareness and intention. By managing expectations, prioritizing self-care, and nurturing your relationships, you can create a more peaceful, fulfilling, and joyful holiday season for yourself and those around you.

Popularized by James Clear in Atomic Habits, habit stacking involves pairing a desired action with something you already do daily. Examples of routine actions include waking up, brushing your teeth, or putting on your shoes. By adding a desirable action directly before or after these existing habits, it becomes easier to incorporate into your life.

Sounds simple enough, right? However, a bit of planning will help, especially if we take advantage of a natural motivator: dopamine.

Dopamine is a hormone and neurotransmitter involved in several body functions. Here, we’ll focus on its role in the reward system, or pleasure feedback loop. This system is designed to reinforce positive behaviors. When we perform an action that brings a positive feeling, our brain releases dopamine, making it more likely we’ll repeat that action.

Let’s dive into the strategy and how you can use it to replace a habit you don’t like with a more desirable action.

Example 1: Attach Your Desired Action to an Everyday Task

At the end of each workday, you may check your email, turn off your computer, and pack up your bag. To kickstart a fitness habit, try adding “put on gym shoes” as the last step. In the beginning, you don’t even need to go to the gym afterward—just build the habit of putting on those shoes. Once this becomes routine, you’re ready for the next step!

Example 2: Link a Desirable Action with a Less Helpful Habit

If you tend to eat unhealthy snacks and watch too much TV in the evenings, try replacing this with a new habit. Schedule cooking dinner first, making it a necessary step before you unwind with screen time. Cooking requires a bit of effort, but it comes with a built-in reward: a tasty meal! Plus, stacking a desirable action with a habit that triggers dopamine can help phase out the less desirable habit over time.

Example 3: Build on Your Routine with Additional Desirable Actions

After a few days of swapping work shoes for gym shoes, add a walk past your fitness center on your way to the car. With the reward system in full effect, you can keep adding steps to your routine. Soon, finishing your workday with a workout will feel natural.

Habit stacking is a powerful, practical way to transform your routine and achieve lasting change. By linking desired actions to existing habits and utilizing the brain’s natural reward system, you can create a pathway to your goals that feels both manageable and motivating.

Start small, stay consistent, and allow each new habit to build on the last. With time, effort, and the right mindset, you’ll develop routines that serve you well, benefiting both your body and your mind.

Habit Stacking with the Holiday Hustle

The Holiday Hustle program is a perfect example of habit stacking in action. The three core tasks—taking 50,000 steps per week, drinking 64 ounces of water daily, and carving out 5 minutes for yourself—are simple habits that can be linked to your existing routines. For example:

• Take steps during your lunch break or while making evening phone calls.
• Drink a glass of water with every meal or coffee break.
• Practice mindfulness or relaxation for 5 minutes right before bed or after brushing your teeth.

Once these habits become part of your daily rhythm, you can build on them by adding more healthy actions, like stretching after your walks, incorporating a morning gratitude journal, or prepping balanced meals for the week. The Holiday Hustle sets a strong foundation for your well-being, helping you maintain your health through the busy season and beyond.

Why wait until New Year’s to start building better habits? Start your habit stacking today and take the first steps toward a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle!

‘Tis the season to keep moving! With our Holiday Hustle program in full swing, we hope you’re staying on top of your fitness goals. One of our primary targets is tracking 50,000 steps per week throughout the program — and we aim to keep that momentum going into the new year and beyond.

For some, that goal might seem daunting. If your daily routine involves long hours on your feet in work boots, wearing shoes that have outlasted their prime, or sitting at a desk for hours followed by a car commute, then it's time we talk about how to fit those steps into your day — from the ground up.

Does Your Shoe Fit?

When it comes to footwear, fashion and function often clash. This is particularly evident in the athletic shoe industry, but it also impacts business and fashion footwear. Many popular brands prioritize sleekness or a stylish heel, but sacrifice foot support and proper toe box space.

To check if your shoes are working for you, simply place your foot inside your shoe — does it feel cramped or is there a noticeable difference between the width of your foot and the sole? If your toes spill over or feel pinched, it’s time to rethink your choice. A proper fit is crucial, and many stores offer professional fittings to help you find a shoe that suits your foot's natural shape. If you're starting to feel discomfort or new pains as you take on more steps, a proper shoe fit could be the fix.

Are You Paying Attention to Your Shoes?

If you're already on your feet a lot, walking or standing, it’s essential to pay attention to the wear and tear on your shoes. Over time, shoes break down, and worn-out soles can negatively affect the alignment and function of your feet. Think of it like running shoes — dedicated runners typically replace theirs every 2-5 months because shoes have a lifespan.

Here’s how to tell if it’s time for new shoes:

• Check for worn edges or vertical creases on the sole — a sign the shoe's support is breaking down.
• Inspect the tread — is it still intact?
• Compare the wear on your left and right shoes — uneven wear can signal alignment or gait issues.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional shoe fitting or visit us for an assessment.

Are Your Feet Ready for the Challenge?

A well-fitting shoe is just one part of the equation — foot strength is just as important. If you're new to physical activity or haven't been walking much recently, it's a good idea to prepare your feet and ankles for the challenge.

Here’s a simple test: Can you "draw" the alphabet with your toes (tracing each letter in the air) without cramping or tiring out? Can you flex and spread your toes (like making a fist with your feet) 10 times without discomfort?

If these exercises are difficult, don't worry! Start with small, daily stretches and exercises to build strength in your feet. You can also schedule an appointment with one of our physiologists to help improve your foot strength and flexibility.

Ditch the Shoes — Occasionally

Here’s a tip that might sound counterintuitive: sometimes, less is more. Shoes are great for protection, but they also do some of the work your foot muscles should be doing. Whenever possible, spend some time without shoes on. Walk barefoot on grass or around your home to activate your foot muscles naturally. The less support your shoes offer, the more your muscles will engage, improving both strength and flexibility.

This practice not only helps build foot strength, but it also gives you valuable feedback about your walking style, which can be helpful when selecting future shoes — especially for hiking or running.

As the festive season draws near, the anticipation of joy, celebration, and connection fills the air. Yet, for many of us committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the holidays can also bring a sense of unease. The abundance of indulgent feasts, tempting treats, and busy schedules can pose challenges to our well-established routines.

But fear not! Setting healthy goals can be the compass that leads us through the festivities with balance, mindfulness, and a genuine sense of well-being.

What are goals and why should we set them?

Goals help us envision what our future will look like, it’s an intentional plan or activity we set out to achieve. We can use our goals to decide where our priorities lie. Goal setting provides focus and increases motivation. It is also important to limit the number of goals we have at one time, so we do not get overwhelmed. If this is something you are struggling with, it can be helpful to set smaller or short-term goals leading up to a larger or long-term goal.

Adjust behaviors to meet your goals.

For every goal you set, you will need to change your behavior to achieve the goal. It may help to think about the consequences of not changing the behavior vs. changing the behavior to keep motivation to continue working towards the goal at hand.

SMART goals and getting started.

People are more likely to achieve goals that meet the SMART criteria: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time bound. We can use this information to get started setting our next goal. Start with writing the goal and what makes this goal specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time bound. Once you have all these answers, you can put it all together and begin working towards achieving this new goal!

Transform this holiday season into a time of self-discovery, growth, and joy. Are you ready to set sail on a path that honors your well-being? Let's embark on this adventure together and emerge from the holidays not just unscathed, but stronger and more connected to our health goals than ever before.

Share your healthy focus this holiday season in the comments! 

2020 has been bizarre to say the least. As the holiday season and another wave of caution approaches many are getting creative with how they plan to celebrate this holiday season in a more untraditional way. Don’t let the pandemic bring down your holiday cheer or derail your diet. Check out these tips for keeping things light for both your mood and your stomach!

Gathering at a distance - We are used to coming together in large groups. Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, check out these ways you can celebrate differently.

• Stick to your quarantine crew. Rather than extended family dinners, choose to dine with your immediate family/friends or those who have been in your circle.
• Friendsgiving doesn’t have to fall to the wayside. If the season is your time to unite with old friends, set up a time to zoom. (#ZoomTogether, Zoom announced they are lifting the 40 minute limit on Thanksgiving). Nothing like a cocktail hour from the safety of home at a safe distance to round out the year.
• Family game night, enjoy the time with family differently. If annual cousin meet ups are your jam for fun games simply plan differently. Virtual games like Pictionary, charades, Bingo and more can be a fun way to enjoy each other.
• Pick up the phone, simply make some phone calls to brighten your mood and the mood of your loved ones. Share stories and memories of your favorite past holidays.
• Miss those work pitch-ins and chili cook-offs? Zoom your work friends and enjoy a lunch together. So many employees are working remotely and miss that interaction, change up your week and schedule a lunch zoom with your co-workers.

Avoid a diet derailing – Just because you might enjoy the holidays in your pajamas, or better yet that new Zoom dress code, (business up top, lounge wear on bottom,) doesn’t suggest you eat the whole pie. Stick with these tips to avoid over doing it at meal time and over stretching the elastic in your pants.

• Don’t overdo the menu. Consider the size of your quarantine crew, you may not be cooking for as many people.
• Be prepared for healthy snacks, having fruit and veggies readily available.
• Drink a large glass of water before you eat. It really does help you from the start of your meal.
• Choose and make one dessert rather than multiple pies.
• Healthy side options can be just as tasty, choose wisely.

There are many tips and tricks to survive the holidays in a healthy way. Start your day with a walk or workout and set yourself up for holiday success. That way if you do choose an extra sweet treat, you earned it!

How are you celebrating differently this season?

The holidays are a busy time for everyone. Multiple family gatherings, end of the year projects, tons of shopping, yet somehow you have to find time to exercise. Consistency is key with almost everything in life if you want to continue to have motivation towards something important to you. Often times individuals find themselves taking one or two days off from something and those couple of days turn into a week or a month. Exercise is especially something that can be difficult to get back on track after a short break, so continuing your normal routine is vital.

Tips for Fitting it In:

• Schedule it - add a time to your calendar and treat it like an appointment
• Pack your bag the night before and set it by the door - take active steps to be prepared
• Wake up and exercise - the day of an event, or function, start your day with exercise
• Short bouts - if time doesn't allow, 10 minute bouts are better than none!

This time of year also brings about a lot of stress. Exercise is proven to reduce stress in various ways such as swimming, biking, running, lifting, yoga, and many more. Exercise has benefits in reducing feelings of anxiety, fatigue, anger, frustration, and even depression. Along with stress, this time of year also brings about depression and sadness for many. Continuing with a routine not only helps you stay on track even after the holidays, but can also be beneficial to help you get through them. Exercise helps provide structure during the day. If it is something individuals are used to, it is important to continue that during a long break from work. The Food Diary mentions that having a consistent routine helps individuals stay on track with proper meals, getting proper sleep and provides a “framework” for the day to keep you prioritized and on schedule.

Aside from the mental benefits, there are physical benefits to sticking with a routine with exercise. It does not take that many days off to lose everything you had been working for throughout the year. Endurance declines quickly when taking too many days off from exercise. Studies have shown that when a regular exercise routine is disrupted and an individual stops working out, the de-training process begins within a couple of weeks. In addition, it is a time of year where weight gain can quickly occur. Continuing with the same workout routine can help prevent this from occurring and allow you to better maintain your weight. If the exact same routine cannot be managed due to access to proper equipment, shorter maintenance workouts should still be followed so that exercise is not stopped all together.

The holidays are right around the corner, and the first thing that comes to mind is all that food! You don’t want to look like a Santa at the start of the New Year! Well, don’t feel guilty about consuming the goodies; just get smart! If you have an understanding of what it takes to properly fuel your body, specifically as you age, the healthy eating process doesn’t seem so daunting. Older adults have different needs, and there are some key nutrients that are really important to maintain.

Let’s get back to the word SMART. Here’s a simple way to eat healthy using this acronym for healthy eating during the holidays.

Servings

When you put food on your plate, divide that plate into four serving sections:

• The first section is whole grains (wheat bread, brown rice, fortified whole-grain cereals).
• The second section is protein (lean meats, eggs, fish, beans, cheese, tofu, peanut butter).
• The third section is vegetables (fresh, frozen, dried, low-sugar canned).
• The fourth section is fruits (fresh, frozen, dried, low-sugar canned).

This is true for every plate at every meal. Eliminate processed foods as much as possible. If you must open a package or can, be sure to check the ingredients. Examples of things to look for are words such as “whole” for grains and “low sugar” for canned fruits. Remember to also control salt intake and instead flavor your food with herbs and spices. Think of the holiday lights and create a colorful plate! The more color found in veggies and fruits, the more nutrients to fuel the body!

Maintain Important Nutrition 

Here is a list of the key nutrients (and examples of foods that provide them) an older adult needs:

• Calcium and Vitamin D (leafy greens, cheese, milk, yogurt, seafood)
• Vitamin B12 (lean meats, eggs ,fish)
• Fiber (beans, cereals, fruits and vegetables)
• Potassium (bananas, prune juice, mangos, pears)

The majority of these nutrients are found in the above foods. Supplements are also important to ensure that we obtain them, but the word is supplement, meaning “in addition to”; therefore, take supplements in addition to getting these nutrients through food.

Allow Some Fun Food

It’s fine to eat a slice of cake or have a cookie, but be mindful of how many. Remember to lower your intake of saturated fat and sugary treats that can lead to heart disease and unwanted pounds (and here are some healthful baking substitution tips). When you think of your plate, consider that 90% is the food that will provide your nutrients and 10% can be that “occasional” brownie or piece of pumpkin pie.

Reach for Water

Drink plenty of fluids! No, the holiday punch doesn’t count, so limit your alcohol intake. Drink water and realize that you can also obtain your fluids from juice, low-fat milk, and even soups.

Take the Time to Exercise

Physical activity is also important in maintaining a good digestive system, and the good fuel from food will be used to restore muscle and burn fat for weight loss.  Get your body moving after those holiday meals.

Be SMART this holiday season! Happy holiday eating!

Need help getting your eating habits on track?  Use NIFS Dietitian, Angie Mitchell to get your habit in line with personal nutrition coaching.  Click below for more information.