Take the Stairs…and Other Easy Ways to Add Exercise to Your Day

No time to exercise? Many can relate to the challenge of trying to fit exercise into an already packed day. But remind yourself: every little bit counts. You don’t have to be running a marathon or swimming laps to positively impact your health and your outlook. Experts say small amounts of exercise accumulated throughout the day can provide significant health benefits.

Easy Ways to Increase Your Activity

• Take a walk around your neighborhood; and then do it again the next day. Include family, friends and pets to make it more enjoyable.
• Park your car farther away from the store. You’ll beat the traffic jams and contribute to the 30 minutes of exercise we all need each day.
• Take the steps instead of the elevator. Studies show that regular stair climbers lower their risk of cardiovascular disease and improve their leg strength.
• Clean and garden with gusto to burn calories and accomplish needed tasks at the same time.

Try wearing a pedometer to track your progress and help you increase your daily activity. Aim for a specific number of steps. Doctors and fitness experts recommend walking 10,000 steps every day. Most Americans average just 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day.

Prioritize Structured Exercise

If it’s on the calendar or part of your routine, you’re a lot more likely to exercise. Optimally, exercise should become a routine, similar to going to work or doing the laundry. Try setting your alarm to wake up a little earlier to exercise; block out part of your lunch break for a quick walk; or schedule a stop at the gym or park after work.

While exercise may not always be convenient, chances are you will thank yourself for making the effort as you begin to feel better and notice positive physical and emotional benefits. Be creative. Any movement you do makes a difference.