Walk, don’t run, to the nearest sporting goods store, and buy a pedometer. This handy little device is an inexpensive way to keep track of how many steps you take in a typical day. And while running may be a great calorie-burner, simply increasing your daily number of steps can help you lose weight.

Aim for 10,000 steps a day. That’s the number researchers say will fully condition your heart and stimulate weight loss. It may sound like a lot, but you can easily achieve this number with the following five tactics:

1. Take a brisk 10-minute walk before work.

2. Walk to a co-worker’s office rather than sending an email or calling on the phone.

3. Park in the farthest spot from your destination.

4. Take mini-walk breaks throughout the work day. Even just 5 minutes around the building will help clear your mind and make you more productive.

5. Drink plenty of water! You’ll take more trips to the bathroom, increasing your walking time. Not to mention the metabolic boost you’ll enjoy from being properly hydrated.

These strategies will bring you one step closer to your weight-loss goals!