The Step Diet is a new book form program that was developed by a group of weight control experts at the University of Colorado.  “Putting one foot in front of the other and walking your way to weight loss” is the basic idea behind this program.  Counting calories is not required instead being mindful of what one is eating and trying to cut back some while counting the steps taken in the day is the simple way to follow this diet plan.  The recommendations are to eat only 75% of what you typically would at meals and to look for lower fat options. 

The 12 week program begins by having one take three 5 minute walks which amounts to one mile or 2,000 steps each day.  Eventually the distance is built up to 10,000 steps or 5 miles each day and does not need to be done all at once during the day.  The easiest way to count those steps required is by the use of a pedometer clipped to ones waistband and conveniently one is provided with the book. 

While this book is titled “The Step Diet” it isn’t just about walking, it also provides some sound advice on other fronts such as conquering mindless overeating, how to change weight gain caused by negative habits, and more.  It also allows for using other types of exercise to count for steps with an easy conversion section.  The book delves into genetics with the statement that “Humans are genetically programmed to gravitate toward the kinds of calorie-dense, high-fat foods that helped their ancestors survive during famine. To lose weight and keep it off requires short-circuiting this genetic tendency. Once that happens, you not only lose weight but also improve health and quality of life.”

Overall I think that this is a great program that will be easy for people to ease their way into a fitness and diet program.  Some people have seen great success such as over 50 pounds lost by following this easy program.  I think that it can be a great stepping stone to more intense programs once some initial weight is lost and some level of fitness gained.

Learn More About the Step Diet

 

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