Thirty Minutes of Exercise? Piece of Cake!
By Donna Stark
I think we give our muscles too much credit; they aren't as smart as we make them out to be. And by that, I mean they really have no idea if you are putting them to work in a fancy, expensive gym or if you are simply at home, in your basement, with your drooling dog and active toddler at your feet. You see, it doesn't matter where you fit in your 30 minutes of daily exercise, it only matters that you are working them. And as long as you do that, they will get stronger.
Getting In Your Exercise
The recommended amount of time for daily exercise is about 30 minutes, and although that doesn't sound like very much in the grand scheme of things, it is pretty easy for a busy day to slip away from you. So be proactive and take advantage of the opportunities in your day to sneak in some extra movement. It's a great way to add up those minutes with very little effort. Here are some suggestions on how to do so.
- Add some steps - Whenever you can, choose some extra walking. Park your car far away from the entrance of your job, take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk your dog in place of letting them out in the backyard, and get out of your chair while on the phone. Every step counts!
- Add some squats - Work those leg muscles by doing squats as you are brushing your teeth, holding your baby, talking on the phone, or going through the mail.
- Add some crunches or body dips - If you are finally getting a chance to watch some television or are on the floor playing with your little one, try adding in some small exercises during the commercials or between cuddles. Crunches can be done anywhere, and those body dips? Well, you just need to sit at the edge of your couch and move forward just enough so that you can raise and lower yourself toward the floor. It's a great way to work out your abs and arms!
- Add lunges - Whether it's to the mailbox, the bus stop, or the laundry room, you are always walking, so make it more challenging by throwing in some lunges! In addition to strengthening your legs, your core will benefit as well!
Turning Idle Time to Workout Time
By doing little exercises throughout the day and taking advantage of every opportunity to keep your body moving, you will be able to get through 30 minutes of exercise without even realizing it! So go ahead. Turn that idle time into something that will bring major health benefits to your life! A few minutes here and a few minutes there will add up to something incredible no matter where you are working out your muscles!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Culver City, Calif.