Keeping your body moving is one of the best things you can do for your health. A busy life can make it hard for you to find the time to go to the gym or play sport, but there are lots of little ways you can sneak more movement into your day without it being a chore. So get creative and get moving with the following top tips.
1. Park your car further than you need to
Rather than trying to park as close to your destination as possible, park a little further away and walk. Not only will you get more exercise, it will probably be less stressful parking further away as you won’t be battling for a park with everybody else.
2. Go for a walking meeting
Going for a walking meeting is fun, invigorating and gets your creative juices flowing. All that fresh air and blood pumping to your brain is great for problem-solving, too.
3. Stand, don’t sit
The research is pretty clear here – sitting for extended periods is incredibly bad for your health. So any chance you get, stand. This can be anything from standing during a meeting to standing while you’re on the phone. Any chance you have where you can stand rather than sit – take it! You can even set your phone timer to on-the-hour stand-up breaks.
4. Stretch while watching TV
Use the time you watch TV to do some stretches, planks or squats. Stand up during the commercials or, if you’re really up for it, stand up during the show and sit during the commercials.
5. Use things furthest from your desk
Use the bathroom that is furthest from your desk or, even better, one that’s on a different floor. Ditto with the printer, phone, water cooler and anything else in the office.
6. If it’s less than 1km away, walk
This is a great rule to apply to your life. If your destination is less than 1km away, rather than jumping in your car, walk, jog or bike. You’ll feel good and save petrol.
7. Get out of the office at lunch
Go for a power walk or run during your lunch break. Even if it’s just for 10 minutes, you’ll feel great, have a change of scenery and be recharged for the afternoon.
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8. Take the stairs
This is a no-brainer. Ditch the lift and escalator and take the stairs.
9. Get off the bus/train a stop earlier
This is another great way to squeeze exercise into your day and you might save some money, too.
10. Play with your kids
Playing with your kids is a great way to get moving. Bounce on the trampoline, play hide and seek, tag or whatever game they come up with. You’ll get moving, have fun and your kids will love you for it!