ForumHow To Add 3000 Steps To Your Day
We all know that we need to be more active throughout the day. Most of us also know exactly what we need to do to transform our sedentary lifestyle. And yet, we continue the cycle of inactivity not out of ignorance but for the sake of practicality. For years now countless T.V. advertisements, fitness experts and doctors have been telling us to take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk to the grocery store, etc.etc…
This is all very good advice and in theory it could work very well. However, it’s advice that not many of us put into practice because it’s not very practical. For instance, we all know that we should take the stairs instead of the elevator. However, who really wants to climb eight flights of stairs every morning to reach the office panting and sweaty? Or who really wants to walk six blocks to the grocery store just to end up carrying home twenty pounds worth of groceries. The truth of the matter is that most of us are not physically capable of carrying home the groceries our family needs if we head to the store on foot. So, even though all of these T.V. advertisements, fitness experts and doctors mean well, their advice ends up doing nothing more than peppering our decisions with guilt.
So, are we doomed to a lifetime of inactivity? No! We have choices and plenty of exciting, viable options. The following are examples of just some of these options:
Adopt a Dog
Our days are hectic and our time is precious. Between rushing to work, picking the kids up from school, cleaning the house, making dinner, etc…often there is no time left for us to take a leisurely walk. We all know that walking is a great way to stay active. But, with time being such a rare commodity we tend to focus on what we must get done in the day (ex: helping the kids with their nightly homework) instead of what we should do (ex: go on a leisurely walk after dinner). So, how can this dilemma be solved? Easy! Find a way to put walking on your daily “must do” list. By adopting a dog you’d not only be giving a homeless animal a second chance but you’d also be giving yourself a second chance at a healthier lifestyle. A dog must be walked a minimum of three times a day. If you walk your dog for a minimum of ten minutes each time by the end of the day you’d have squeezed in a half hour of activity and burned a minimum of 100 calories depending on how fast you walk. If you factor in playtime and so forth owning a dog will force you to add 4+ hours of activity to your week.
Move the Couch
If adopting a dog will just not fit into your lifestyle than move the couch. We all have daily shows we enjoy watching. The problem with these shows is that they are so engaging we often forget about starting a workout routine. But, why not combine the two? Move the couch, put the treadmill in its place and in the time it takes you to watch your favorite shows you will have squeezed in a great workout as well.
Clean the House
House cleaning is a great way to get active and burn a few extra calories. According to FitDay.com just 30 minutes of house cleaning can help you burn up to 80 calories. So, why wait for spring? Do a little cleaning everyday to stay not only healthier but happier as well in your spotless home.
Make a Connection
Most of us are stuck behind a desk for 8 hours a day. But, you’d be wrong to think that it is impossible to squeeze in some exercise at the office. In fact, finding ways to be active at the office is not only beneficial to your health but it may also be beneficial to your career. For example, instead of emailing your co-workers try hand delivering the information. You’ll not only be up and walking around but you’d also get to know your co-workers. Establishing an interpersonal relationship with your co-workers could be the first step towards that promotion you’ve always wanted. Granted, they might find this odd at first but play your cards right and soon you will be famous!
Motivate Your Neighbors
Fitness is contagious. Let your friends, family and neighbors know that you are consciously making an effort to be more active. Invite them to join you and you will be surprised at the response you get. Organize a neighborhood walking club and walk your neighborhood or even your city, if you feel adventurous. Keep track of your progress with a pedometer and share your progress with your friends and family.
