We all know that fitness is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but between getting the kids off to school, scheduling doctor’s appointments, and finishing work around the house, it can seem impossible to squeeze in a workout. So here are some simple ways to stay active throughout your day, without taking a trip to the gym:
KEEP MOVING AT WORK. Even if you have a typical desk job, there are several things you can do to stay active throughout the workday. Use an exercise ball instead of a chair; it forces you to use your core in order to stay balanced. Pace around the office when you’re on the phone, and take a break every few hours to walk up and down a flight of stairs.
CLEAN THE HOUSE. You’ll use most of your muscles doing this household chore. A 150-pound person can burn 85 calories per hour doing light cleaning or 102 calories per half hour doing heavy chores.
COOK AT HOME. Not only does cooking at home save you money (as opposed to eating out), but it also helps you burn calories. You’re more likely to make healthy food choices at home, and the actual act of cooking (standing, light lifting, and chopping) can burn up to 78 calories in a half an hour.
For more tips on how to incorporate activity into your daily schedule: everydayhealth.com/ways-to-stay-active
—Jenna Schubert
