National Fitness Day is the first Saturday in May. This day encourages all of us to get moving more. Lack of physical activity can be extremely detrimental to one’s health and contribute to major diseases. A lot has happened in the past three years and our day-to-day may look drastically different than before. Many of us struggle with making ourselves a priority. Here are some ways you can implement more movement to take advantage of the benefits of exercise.
The benefits of moving more can include:
- Increased brain function
- Weight control
- Improved mental health and mood
- Disease prevention
- Increased chances of living longer
- Better sleep cycles
- Increased energy
- Reduced stress
Here are some healthy habits for you to try out!
- Drink More Water
Water has plenty of health benefits and can contribute to weight loss goals and overall health.
2. Take Breaks During Commercials
When watching TV, get up and walk around your home for some extra steps. Experts say that after every 90 minutes of work, a 15-20 minute break including eating, walking, etc can help increase energy levels, cognitive function, and decrease stress.
3. Ditch The Drive Through
If your local coffee shop or breakfast shop is within walking distance opt for walking to get your morning spread versus driving.
4. Get A Stand Up Desk
Using a stand-up desk throughout your workday can produce multiple health benefits. Find stand-up desk options here.
5. Park Further Away
When shopping or out, park further away or towards the back of the parking lot.
6. Skip The Elevator
Opt for the stairs whenever possible.
7. Take Daily Walks
Get your daily steps up by taking walks each day, try a walk after you finish your lunch or while you are on break.
8. Tidy Up Your Home
Moving around your home, doing laundry, dusting, and wiping down countertops can actually cause you to work up quite a sweat. Staying on top of household chores can get you moving each day.
9. Take Walking Meetings
If you are working on location, influence your team to have walking meetings and get in extra movement.
10. Get To The Gym
Try adding the gym into your daily routine. Prepare yourself by keeping a bag of gym clothes with you in your car or ready to go.
11. Sign Up For A Race
Sign up for a marathon or walk that supports a cause you are passionate about. Training for this will encourage you to increase your cardiovascular endurance.
12. Count Your Steps
Consider using an apple watch or Fitbit to track your steps. Setting a step goal could help motivate you to be more active! Click here for more ways to track activity.
