Sly Ways to Exercise
By Sara Butler
Exercise doesn’t just mean going to the gym and sweating for an hour on a treadmill. There are all types of ways to exercise -- some of them are even fun! Here are a few ideas to help you find some ways to exercise that doesn’t feel like exercise at all!
Dance!
This doesn’t have to mean you go out to a club or take dance lessons. You can sneak dance into your day and the best part is that no one has to see you do it! When you’re getting ready in the morning, simply put on some tunes and move your body as you go through the motions of getting ready for the day.
Burn Calories While Waiting
If you commute to work via the subway or by bus, you don’t just have to stand there. You can sway, rock, move side to side, or pace as you wait. Remember, any time your body is in motion, you’re burning calories; it doesn’t have to be intense exercise to count. And let’s face it, you’ve seen stranger things on public transportation.
Walk
If you drive to work, try parking as far away as you can from the entrance to your building. That way you can get a few more steps in when you get to work and leave. Try parking progressively farther away each week to amp up your step count.
Strength Train on the Down Low
As you’re walking down the hallway at work, making dinner in the evening, or just hanging out with your cat, you can do some strength training on the sly. All you have to do is pull in your abdominal muscles, roll back your shoulders, and take some deep breaths. You’ll look and feel good and no one will even be able to tell you’re working out!
Stretch
When you get up to use the restroom, work in some simple stretches. You should be getting up at least once an hour while working, so seize the opportunity to repeat a few simple stretches. It’s good for your posture and your frame of mind.
Forget the Phone
Most people are glued to their phones. Instead of texting a friend, meet up with them. As you talk face to face, you can go for a walk to work in a little exercise while still trading some good gossip. Challenge yourself to go a whole day without texting a single soul and instead, try having real conversations with people -- it’s good for you!
Exercise doesn't have to feel like exercise. Try these suggestions and find out for yourself!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodland Hills, Calif.
