We’re all busy, yes, but many only pretend they have no time for exercise. They are not fooling anybody including themselves. You don’t do that of course! The truth is we find time for things we really want to do. We just make up our minds, and we just do it. That sounds like a great advertising strategy, don’t you think? For those of us who wish we had more time for movement, here are some strategies for how to sneak movement into your busy day.
Tips for Adding Movement to Your Busy Schedule
We are told to spend a minimum of 150 minutes per week doing some type of activity or moderate exercise. It helps you improve your cardiovascular health, lose a few pounds, increase your muscle strength, and find extra energy and an improved mood—all good reasons to sneak movement into your busy day.
Let’s get sneaky, and of course, check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen.
Take Your Best Friend for a Walk
If you have a dog, he or she is definitely your best friend, and will always be willing to go for a walk. They will love it, and you will get in some time outdoors and get your body moving.
Take Advantage of Your Lunch Hour
If you work in an office and eat at your desk, go for a walk after you eat. If you go out for lunch every day, find a place you can comfortably walk to.
Skip the Elevator
It’s so tempting, but skip the elevator and take the stairs. Your shapely legs will thank you.
If there is an escalator, walk up the escalator.
Step Away From the Desk
If you work at a desk all day, get up at least every hour and walk around the office. You can take business calls during that time, get coffee, make notes for an upcoming meeting, or just say hi to coworkers. No one will care about this behavior as long as you don’t spend too long visiting and chatting.
Two Birds…
You love watching your favorite show, but sitting through it does your body no good. Right? Get on the treadmill while watching or do some other easy exercise and kill two birds…. And no guilt.
Use a Standing Desk
Admit it, you’ve been thinking about getting one. It’s perfect for focus, posture, and reducing neck and shoulder pain. Standing is always better than sitting for burning calories.
Clean to the Music
Put on your favorite tunes and do the laundry, vacuum, clean the kitchen or your closet. Have some fun while you do the housekeeping. It needs to be done anyway.
The same goes for gardening and yard work. Music helps pass the time and you get to polish your dance steps.
Have Sex
It’s a moderate intensive workout in case you didn’t know.
Now you do.
Weight Management in Madison, AL
Contact Madison Medical Associates at (256) 325-1160 if you are considering weight loss surgery and need help getting started.
Sources: Physical activity – how to get active when you are busy – Better Health Channel
Get Fit Without Working Out: 10 Everyday Activities That Count as Exercise – CNET