Oh, my goodness! I swear we had the longest winter and chilly weather, only to move rapidly into hot summer months … with no spring buffer in between. The humidity feels like it's sitting at 100 per cent, the cloud coverage is almost nonexistent, and from the looks of it, everybody is trying to avoid this sweat-induced climate. Prior to the twins, I'd regularly get in 10,000 steps before 10am — and that was after spending my morning with clients from 6am.

The heat was just as unbearable back then, but I was used to it. Somewhere along the way, after the babies arrived, I unknowingly changed my habits. Without even thinking about it, I started parking closer, looking for the nearest shade, choosing convenience over movement, and spending less time simply walking.

It wasn't until last week that it really hit me. As busy as life feels — running from one activity to the next — my feet aren't actually moving that much. I'll teach a class. I'll get in a strength workout. Then I'll sit to answer e-mails, write programmes, chauffeur children, tick off errands, and before I know it, the day is done.

Technically, I've exercised.

But, I haven't really moved.

That distinction is important.

We often think movement only counts if it's a sweaty workout, a heavy lifting session, or an intense fitness class. Those things absolutely have their place — I make a living encouraging people to do them — but somewhere along the way we've forgotten that our bodies were designed to move throughout the day.

Walking isn't glamorous. It doesn't require fancy equipment. It won't usually earn you applause on social media. Yet it's one of the simplest, most accessible forms of exercise available to almost everyone.

A brisk walk can improve cardiovascular health, support weight management, reduce stress, improve mood, lower blood sugar after meals, strengthen joints, increase energy levels and improve overall longevity. It gives you a chance to disconnect from screens, reconnect with nature, clear your mind, or simply enjoy a conversation with someone beside you.

Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do isn't another workout.

It's just … walk. That's exactly why I started the Step Into Summer Challenge.

In fact, if it weren't for this journey, I don't think the twins would've suggested waking up at 6am — yes, their suggestion — to get our steps in together as a family. I probably wouldn't have taken a leisurely walk to Whale Bay ladt weekend with Levi, soaking up the evening sunshine while listening to his endless giggles. Those moments don't show up on a leaderboard or in a personal best, but they matter just as much.

That's what I'm beginning to appreciate about this challenge. Step Into Summer gives us permission to slow down.

These walks aren't about pace. They're not about burning the most calories, chasing a finish line or setting a personal record. They're simply about walking. About being present. About noticing the breeze, appreciating the scenery, having conversations without distractions, and remembering that movement doesn't always have to be intense to be meaningful.

The goal is simple: at least 10,000 steps every day.

No barbells. No dumbbells. No spin bike. No burpees. Just your own two feet.

For some, 10,000 steps will come naturally. For others, it'll require intentional choices: taking the long route through the grocery store, parking a little farther away, getting up from the desk every hour, taking the children to the park instead of staying indoors, or inviting a friend for an evening walk instead of meeting over coffee.

It's amazing how those little decisions accumulate.

Fitness doesn't always have to be all or nothing. It doesn't always require an hour carved out of your day. Sometimes wellness is built in the quiet moments — in choosing the stairs, taking one extra lap around the block, or saying yes to a sunset walk despite the heat.

The summer sun may be fierce, but let's not allow it steal our movement altogether. Go early. Go later in the evening. Find shaded routes. Split your steps into smaller walks throughout the day. The goal isn't perfection — it's consistency.

So whether you're joining the challenge or simply using this as your reminder, I encourage you to step into summer with purpose.

Not every step needs to be fast. Not every step needs to leave you breathless.

Some steps will be filled with laughter from your children. Some will be quiet moments to clear your mind. Some will reconnect you with nature, with your family, or even with yourself. Every one of those steps counts.

Because every step is carrying you towards a healthier version of yourself.

To join our Step Into Summer Challenge, simply click the link below and start walking with us:

https://join.thestepupapp.com/7Bp9vF

Whether you're already hitting 10,000 steps with ease or you're starting from 3,000, you're welcome. This isn't about competing with anyone else — it's about moving a little more than you did yesterday.

I look forward to watching your daily step count grow throughout the summer and, more importantly, seeing the healthy habits that grow along with it.

Happy Wednesday, Fitfam! As usual, remain unapologetic about your entire fitness and wellness journey, stay true to yourself, and always be honest with your efforts.

One step at a time.

• Dre Hinds is a personal trainer, aerobic and yoga instructor and fitness “addict” with more than 20 years’ experience. She specialises in nutrition, weight and sprint training, operating out of HindsSight Fitness and Wellness at the Berkeley Cultural Centre. Contact her at absbydre@gmail.com or on 599-6683. Find her on Facebook, X and Instagram under @Absbydre