Did you know Wednesday was National Walking Day? I didn’t, until quite late in the day, but I thought it was worth a mention.

One of the things that comes up most in sessions with patients is physical activity. Movement is good for us, yet so many Americans spend their days sitting in front of a screen or behind the wheel. This is bad for our minds and bodies—we need physical activity to maintain weight and muscle, to boost our mood, and more. Some studies even suggest that walking improves cognitive function and wards off cancer.

One easy way to work more activity into your day is to start walking. Most adults are advised to gradually work up to 3-4 miles per day or 60 New York City blocks, or 10,000 steps. And you don’t have to do it all at once—your steps add up over the day.

Want to see how many steps you take per day? Invest in a pedometer. These inexpensive little devices can be clipped onto your belt or even downloaded onto your smartphone!