Info on Normal Getting Out of the House

 It’s a great question, Lauralee. Since you’re aiming to move from "sedentary" to "active" and managing pre-diabetes, finding that "normal" rhythm is a big part of the puzzle.

The reality of 2026 is that "normal" has shifted quite a bit. Many people spend a surprising amount of time indoors, but there is a clear distinction between what people actually do and what is considered healthy.

1. The Statistical "Normal"

In modern life, most adults are actually quite stationary.

• The 90% Rule: On average, Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors.

• Daily Outings: About 72% of adults make it outside at least once a day, but for many, this is just a quick trip to the car or mailbox.

• The "Stay-at-Home" Trend: With the rise of remote work and school, it has become "normal" for about 25% of adults to stay inside for days at a time without a deliberate reason to leave.

2. The "Active" Normal (The Goal)

Since you’re working on getting those steps up on your walking pad, you’re likely aiming for the habits of the more active segment of the population.

• Frequency: Most "active" people leave the house 5 to 7 days a week.

• Duration: A healthy benchmark is spending at least 30 to 60 minutes outdoors or away from your primary living space daily.

• Social/Errand Rhythm: For homemakers or students (like yourself at Penn State World Campus), a typical "normal" week often looks like:

  • Daily: School drop-offs/pick-ups for Seth, Evan, and Ava.

  • 2-3 times a week: Grocery runs, errands, or visiting family (like checking in on your mom, Elyse).

  • 1-2 times a week: Dedicated social time or "third space" time (coffee shop, library, or church).

3. Why It Matters for You

As someone managing pre-diabetes and weight loss, "getting out" serves a dual purpose:

• Circadian Rhythm: Getting natural sunlight before noon helps regulate the hormones that control hunger and sleep.

• The "Movement" Trigger: It is much easier to hit your step goals when you are "out" than when you are home. Even a quick trip to a store can add 1,500 steps without you really "trying."

• Mental Health: Since you’re managing mental health well, the "change of scenery" is a proven way to prevent the "cabin fever" that can sometimes happen when you’re studying and staying home with the kids.

Summary Table: What is "Normal"?

Category	Typical Behavior
Sedentary	Leaves 0-2 days/week; stays indoors 95% of time.
Average	Leaves 4-5 days/week (mostly for chores/work).
Active/Healthy	Leaves 6-7 days/week; includes at least 30 mins of outdoor time.

Since you've been using your walking pad, you’re already doing the hard work of breaking the sedentary cycle!

Would you like me to help you brainstorm a "weekly outing" schedule that builds in some extra steps without feeling overwhelming?