How to Calculate a Walking Route

Walking is one of the healthiest things you can do for your body and your mind. It is a low-impact way to work out the entire body and is good for all ages. Depending on your fitness level and your goals, you can calculate a walking route to meet your needs.

Things You'll Need

  • Walking shoes
  • Pedometer
  • GPS (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Get in your car and drive around your neighborhood looking for a route that circles to and from your home or a straight-out-and-back route. Try to avoid having to cross a lot of busy streets because it will slow you down. Keep track of the odometer reading so you will know the distance you will be walking, or you can save the information to a GPS if you have one.

    • 2

      Buy a pedometer that attaches to your waistband. Pedometers can be bought in most sporting goods stores. Set the pedometer to zero and start walking; the device will calculate the distance based on the steps you have taken.

    • 3

      Consider a website that will map a route in the area in which you live. You will provide basic information such as your zip code and the distance you want to walk, and it will give you a map to follow.

    • 4

      Check with local trail/walking organizations or websites. They offer routes in parks and other areas that are designed and created for walkers and runners and maintained by the city and/or state. The paths are typically paved or graveled and are calculated by distance and intensity level.