What we are talking about is a brisk two-mile walk most days of the week. A brisk walk means walking with purpose, walking like you're trying to get somewhere. You have slightly noticeable breathing, but you are easily able to talk to someone. She recommends making walking social by going with a friend. It's a real motivator for many people, especially women, Bach says.
Action breeds motivation.
So if you can just get started, it will be self-perpetuating. Many people don't make physical activity a priority. They are not convinced of the importance of it, and they find it easy to make excuses, such as being too busy, Manson says. But if you set clear goals and write them down, you make time for them. For instance, you might set a goal of walking 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the afternoon.