Ways to Use Household Tasks to Work Out

By Sandy Schroeder

Most of us feel guilty when we miss our daily walk or gym workout, but we should remember how much exercise we get with daily chores.  

In an average day at my house, I vacuum, sweep off the steps, and lug out the trash. You may also be lifting toddlers, carrying in groceries or scrubbing the floor.  

Take Credit for Daily Tasks 

Here's a starter list of tasks that you may be doing that counts as exercise.  

• Clean all of your windows inside and out 
• Sweep or mop floors 
• Vacuum entire house 
• Lift, carry and move babies or toddlers 

Add in Heavy Duty Tasks 

These may burn as much as 1,000 calories as you lift, carry pull, push and squat. 

• Paint a room 
• Plant a garden 
• Clean out the garage 
• Weed a lawn 
• Trim bushes or prune trees 
• Car wash by hand 
• Power wash 
• Rake leaves 
• Mulch flowerbeds 

Now Add Exercise to a Task 

You can get more exercise mileage by adding simple moves to tasks. 

• Do a one-leg stand while you work at the kitchen counter 
• Do simple stretches while you wait for your kids 
• Run up and down the stairs when you take computer breaks 
• Do counter or desk planks during morning or afternoon breaks 

More Ways to Keep Moving 

Use those extra moments to stay active.

• Park at the back of the lot 
• Bike rather than drive whenever you can 
• Play with your kids on the park swings or jungle gym 
• Practice soccer or shoot hoops in the backyard 
• Build forts or hideouts with your kids 
• Sit in a squat position on the floor while watching TV 
• Dance with or without your kids at home or away 

Once you get into the habit of moving more you may feel your spirits lift.  You may find yourself getting up an hour early to go for a run or adding a simple yoga session to your nightly routines.  

Keep Expanding Your Efforts

You may want to start a daily log of extra activities that you have added, with weight and health numbers. Get the whole family involved with weekly check-ins and awards for great efforts.  

Keep in mind to always use regular visits with your doctor to review current numbers and guidelines for any health issues. Also check with your doctor before tackling new heavier tasks. 

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.