Exploring Urban Adventures: Steps Goals and Quarantine Workouts in Toronto and London

I currently reside in Toronto, a city that has seen extensive lockdown measures, though it's beginning to reopen. Adhering to the strict guidelines, I stick to online grocery shopping and limit my visits to stores to times when I'm the only non-employee present. My fitness routine is adapted to this new lifestyle, consisting of push-ups, sit-ups on my living room floor, and weight training with dumbbells.

While avoiding public transit, my daily walks have become a crucial part of my routine. These walks not only contribute to my step count but also serve as excellent adventures within the city grid. Recently, I ventured from St. Clair Avenue West to Keele and Lawrence, discovering the Design and Décor District on Castlefield along the way. My recent walk down Corona Street further fueled this urban adventure. On one particularly productive day, I exceeded 20,000 steps, which is significantly above my daily step goal of 10,000.

Urban living offers a unique opportunity for exploration and staying healthy. The grid layout of Toronto allows for predictable distances between major thoroughfares, making it easy to manage short, efficient walks. With such an organized city plan, urban adventuring is a fantastic way to utilize free time.

Quitting the Gym Isn't an Option

While I indulge in these neighborhood walks, it's essential to maintain some form of structured exercise. This led to the realization that stepping counts are a crucial metric for staying active, especially in a lockdown environment.

Steps Quota for a Healthy Day

Everyone has their own step goal, and mine is a daily tally of 10,000 steps. This simple target helps keep me accountable and engaged, turning everyday activities into health-promoting ones. In the UK, where I previously lived, the recommended exercise regime allows for unlimited outdoor walking. However, in crowded areas like London, it's a bit harder to achieve this without flexing my steps goals to the max.

While London has its challenges, it also offers beautiful parks that are perfect for maintaining my step count. Despite the crowded areas, the parks provide lovely green spaces. A secondary benefit of walking in London is the opportunity to explore hidden treasures like mewses, which are essentially alleyways at the ends of back gardens with garages. These mewses are great for finding some street art and escaping the bustling city mainstays for a while.

Stay Active and Enjoy Urban Exploration

Whether you’re in Toronto or somewhere else, incorporating steps into your daily routine can be a fun and effective way to stay active and engaged. Walking your neighborhood can be a great adventure, offering both physical benefits and opportunities to explore your surroundings. Just remember, every step counts.

Happy stepping and urban adventuring!