Taking steps to stay fit

That's especially important for women's bone health as they age.

Experts recommend that people add activities, such as using weights, gym equipment or their own body as resistance, and doing exercises that improve flexibility like yoga or stretching at least twice weekly.

Nearly everyone has heard about the 10,000-step walking goal, which dates back to a 1960s marketing campaign in Japan, but experts stress that it's just a guideline.

The average American walks about 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day, and it's fine to gradually work up to 10,000, Shmied said.

Setting a time goal can also be useful. Shmied suggests breaking the recommended 150 minutes per week into 30 minutes a day, or 10 minutes three times a day, for five days. During inclement weather, people can walk in malls or on treadmills.

As they become seasoned walkers, they can speed up the pace or challenge themselves with hills, while still keeping the activity level moderate.

"If you can talk but not sing," Eby said, "that's what we consider moderate-intensity exercise."

Staying motivated is the key. Walking with friends — including dogs — is one way. Walking clubs have popped up across the nation.