With so much of our time spent being seated, due to study and work commitments, we need to find ways to incorporate more movement. Regular physical activity plays a very important role in our overall health and wellness. The more we move the more energy we expend, therefore burning more calories. It is also important for the health of our joints and muscles, particularly as we age and lose muscle mass.
Whilst a regular exercise regime is the ideal way to maintain health, it is also the incidental activity that can have a major impact. Not all of us love spending hours in the gym, or pounding the footpath and tackling team sports. But there are many other options available that don’t require you to commit to a class or certain equipment. Just making the effort to leave the car and walk to the shops, or taking the stairs rather than the elevator.
Here are a few ideas as to how you could increase your daily movement:
Perform errands by walking or cycling to your destination.
This is a far better option, as driving and parking in the city can be a challenge in itself.
Take your backpack and only buy what you can carry, this will encourage you to do the journey more often rather than one big shop with a car.
Use a stand-up desk at work or home.
Plenty of people are making the switch to standing rather than sitting for long period. Your hips will thank you. It also allows you to move and stretch more often throughout the day.
Make physical activity a part of your daily commute.
Start your day earlier and head off to work on foot or by bike. This is also great for mental health, helping you start the day with a clear head. Challenge yourself by taking a different route each week and keeping an eye on your step count so see if you can increase it by 10% each week.
Use your coffee break to your advantage.
Call a friend and ask them to meet you at a coffee shop a few blocks away.
It’s easier to wander downstairs to the coffee shop in the lobby, but far more beneficial to walk a few blocks and explore a new cafe each time.
Take the stairs.
If you are working or studying in a multi- level building, then skip the elevator and take the stairs.
A great way to increase your step count in a small amount of time, and a the best way to increase your cardiovascular fitness.