February 2025 Newsletter

[NAME], I’ve got a plan to help you shake off the frost as we move through winter and push toward spring.

I know the holiday season is long past and February can feel like a grind, so we’re going to get moving with a steps challenge!

It’s simple: From Feb. 10-28, you’ll hit a certain number of steps every day.

How many? You pick the number. The daily dose of movement is more important than the number of steps.

If you really like to walk, set a higher number. If you don’t walk a lot, pick a lower number.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s reasonable for you. It would be a mistake to pick a giant number that’s tough to hit every day. Set a goal that reflects your current fitness level and schedule.

A quick hack: If you have a pedometer or phone that tracks steps, look at your daily average. That will give you an idea of what’s “normal.” Then you can set a goal that will take you out of the ordinary.

For example, a 20-minute walk will produce about 2,400 steps. Start there if you’re not sure what number to select. A coach can also review your fitness and activity levels to help you get a great target in place.

Our goal here is to get moving and add in a little extra “non-exercise activity.” If you’re currently working out, this is just some extra movement added to your training schedule—an easy bonus! If you aren’t working out right now, this is a great way to start a fitness program.

Why walking? Going for an easy walk will get you off the couch to burn some calories. It’s so tempting to burrow in and watch a movie on a chilly evening, and this is a great way to ensure you get moving every day. And you don’t need a lot of time or any equipment to get after a steps goal.

Walking also gets you out into nature—although you can do this challenge indoors on a treadmill. You can even walk around your house, the office or mall if you don’t have a treadmill.

But I’d advise you to head outside if you can. The more often you get out and about in February, the faster the chilly days will pass. Before you know it, the sun will be out longer and the days will be warmer. And you might even choose to keep walking in spring—I’d encourage you to do so!

Here’s the plan: If you’d like to take part in our February Steps Challenge, hit “reply” and let me know your steps goal. I’ll log it and check in with you at the end of the month to see how the challenge went. You can feel free to message me with questions about walking or fitness at any time!

Pro tip: Sign up for the challenge with a friend so you have great company and a little accountability. Bring the kids or the dogs, too!

I would love to see you do this challenge. If you’ve been feeling sluggish lately or just have a case of the winter blahs, a little brisk walking in the great outdoors is just the thing to help you warm up and cheer up.

Set your goal and send me an email—I will respond!

And if you need any tips or advice, fire your questions at me.

Let’s get moving on Feb. 10!

[NAME]