Let’s get one thing straight: If you’ve been scrolling Instagram, watching fitness influencers power through a 10,000-step day while smiling like they just inherited a fortune, don’t panic. Walking as your plus size workout doesn’t have to start with 10,000 steps. In fact, let’s leave that number for the overachievers and the fitness robots. We’re starting small because sustainable health isn’t about hitting unrealistic goals—it’s about building habits that stick. So seriously think about that when starting any plus size workout. 

Trust me, I know. After being a pandemic shut-in, I couldn’t walk to the stop sign without sounding like I was auditioning for Darth Vader. It was tragic. But here’s the thing about our bodies—they’re amazing machines. They adapt. They grow stronger. And if you’re consistent, those short walks turn into longer strides. So let’s dive into how to get your daily steps in without feeling like you’re training for an Olympic sport.

Why Walking is the Ultimate Fitness Hack for a Plus Size Workout

You’ve probably heard it before, but let me say it louder for the people in the back: Walking is one of the most accessible, effective ways to improve your health. It’s free. It doesn’t require a gym membership or fancy plus size workout shoes. And you can do it literally anywhere—inside, outside, even in place.

Walking helps your body in ways you don’t see immediately. It strengthens your heart, lowers stress, and improves mood (yes, even when you’re walking in circles around your kitchen). Over time, it builds stamina, strengthens muscles, and burns calories. But beyond the science, walking gives you a chance to breathe, think, and reconnect with yourself. It's like therapy—just cheaper and with fewer awkward silences.

Obstacle #1: The Busy Bee Blues

Life is hectic, right? Between work, family, and the occasional Netflix binge, where’s the time for walking? One day, I realized I’d taken 72 steps. That’s not a typo. SEVENTY-TWO. I was basically a houseplant with Wi-Fi.

Here’s the trick: Busy doesn’t mean you can’t walk for your plus size workout—it just means you have to get creative. March in place while you microwave leftovers. Take the long way to the bathroom. Do laps around the house during a phone call. Sure, you might look like you’ve lost it, but who cares? You’re moving. Bonus: Your dog will think you’re the most entertaining human alive.

If you can spare just 10 minutes between meetings, take a quick walk. Walk around the block, down the driveway, or even up and down the stairs. Small moments add up, and before you know it, you’ll have hit your goal without even realizing it.

Obstacle #2: Weather Woes

Oh, the weather. Too hot? You’re sweating buckets. Too cold? You’re bundled like the kid from A Christmas Story. Too wet? You’re soggy by step three. For a while, I let weather become my ultimate excuse. Drizzle? Nope. Slight breeze? Not today.

But then it hit me: I have walls. Who says steps have to happen outside? I started pacing my living room like a caged tiger. It wasn’t glamorous, but it worked. Some days I walked laps around my couch. I hit my steps and found three missing remote controls. Win-win. How’s that for being creative with my plus size workout! 

When the weather’s bad, consider breaking up your walking routine. Do short bursts of steps throughout the day—five minutes here, 10 minutes there. Or try a walking workout video online. Yes, it might feel silly, but it’s effective. And honestly, who cares what it looks like when you’re crushing your plus size workout goals?

Obstacle #3: The Motivation Monster

Plus size workout motivation is like a bad Tinder date—it promises the world but rarely shows up when you need it. I can’t tell you how many times I stared at my sneakers, waiting for them to magically carry me out the door. Spoiler: They didn’t.

Here’s what saved me: The seven-minute rule. I’d tell myself, “Just walk for seven minutes. If it’s awful, stop.” Most days, those seven minutes turned into 10, then 20. The hardest part was starting, but once I tricked myself into getting up, I kept going. It’s like bribing a toddler to eat their vegetables—you’ve just got to outsmart yourself.

Another trick to get your plus size workout on? Accountability. Get a buddy who’s as committed as you are—or at least someone who will guilt-trip you when you try to skip your walk. Even virtual step challenges can keep you motivated. There’s nothing like a little friendly competition to get you moving.

The 10,000-Step Trap

Let’s address the elephant in the room: That magical number everyone talks about—10,000 steps. Who decided that? Was there a meeting? Because when you’re starting out, that number feels as achievable as climbing Mount Everest. I remember trying it once. By 3,000 steps, I was ready to call an ambulance.

The truth? Start where you are. Your plus size workout doesn’t have to start where you’re going to be crippled the next day. Maybe that’s 500 steps today. Maybe it’s a walk to the mailbox or halfway down the block. Celebrate it. Progress is progress, and there’s no step police waiting to ticket you for not doing enough. Small wins add up to big changes.

Set realistic goals that align with your current fitness level. If 1,000 steps feels manageable, aim for that. Once it becomes a habit, add more. The key is consistency, not perfection.

The Pandemic Shuffle

Let’s be real: The pandemic threw a wrench in everyone’s fitness plans. After months on the couch, I couldn’t make it to my mailbox without gasping for air. It was embarrassing and, honestly, a little depressing. But I knew my body was capable of more—it just needed time. I started with short walks for my plus size workout, building up little by little. Was it glamorous? No. Did my neighbors think I was suspicious for circling the block 10 times? Probably. But I kept at it.

Now, I can walk a mile without needing a nap or an oxygen tank. The body is incredible. It’s not about perfection—it’s about consistency. The more you move, the easier it gets.

Tips for Making Walking a Habit

1. Tie it to a Routine: Walk after meals or during your favorite podcast. Associating it with something you already do makes it easier to stick with.

2. Make It Fun: Listen to music, audiobooks, or call a friend. Walking doesn’t have to be boring.

3. Track Your Progress: Use a step counter or app to track your plus size workouts. Seeing those numbers go up is surprisingly satisfying.

4. Reward Yourself: Hit your goal for a week? Treat yourself to a new playlist, comfy socks, or your favorite snack.

5. Change It Up: Walk in different places—parks, neighborhoods, trails. Variety keeps things interesting.

Key Takeaway: One Step at a Time

Walking is the most underrated fitness tool out there. No fancy equipment, no gym membership—just you and your two feet. Start small. Celebrate every step, every block, every lap around your couch. Fitness isn’t a sprint; it’s a lifetime journey. Walking isn’t just about steps; it’s about creating a sustainable habit that makes you feel stronger, healthier, and more alive.

Your journey is yours. Forget the comparisons and the “shoulds.” Just take the first step, and let the rest follow.

Are You Ready for Your Plus Size Workout? 

Ready to lace up and start stepping into a healthier you?

Share your plus size workout progress with me or ask questions—I’d love to hear your story. And remember, it’s not about where you start. It’s about where you’re going.