10 Simple Ways to Incorporate More Movement Into Your Life
Many of the activities in our daily lives, today, prevent us from getting the amount of movement our bodies require. The majority of us spend most of our days behind a desk, in front of a computer or TV, or in the car.
Living a sedentary lifestyle can be extremely damaging to your health. Studies show that the average person spends 12 hours a day sitting; leading to lower calorie burn, and increased risk for disease, vein problems, and early death.
Being more active doesn’t mean spending more time at the gym, but instead incorporating more simple movements into your daily routine. Here are 10 fun and easy ways to get moving:
1. Take the stairs
Next time you have the choice of stairs or an elevator/escalator, opt to take the stairs. Not only are they great for leg muscles, but you can also get in a little cardio.
2. Walk and talk
Take that next phone call on the go. Catching up with a friend, calling that dreaded 800 number, or finally calling your mom back; do so while you walk. It can be down the block or just pacing the living room.
3. Stand up regularly
This is especially important for those with jobs that keep you behind a desk for 8 hours. Aim to get up and walk for at least one minute every hour.
4. Exercise while watching TV
I know, we said watching TV was bad for you, but it doesn’t have to be if you move while you do it. It doesn’t have to be strenuous, just walking in place or doing some light stretching is enough.
5. Cook more
We know, cooking takes time. But it has quite a few benefits. Cooking burns more calories than going to eat out or ordering in since you’re moving around the kitchen while you prepare your meal. People also tend to eat fewer calories when they cook at home.
6. Tidy Up
Don’t leave all your cleaning for the weekend. Spend 15 minutes every day crossing one thing off your to-do list, or just tidy up the messes that tend to accumulate throughout the day.
7. Sit on the floor
If you need to sit, try sitting on the ground. Sitting, lying, kneeling, or squatting on or as close to the floor as much as possible can pay off big in hip mobility, spine health, and kinesthetic awareness, while also encouraging more movement.
8. Add a few minutes of walking to your lunch menu
Walk to a nearby restaurant to grab lunch, or just take a few minutes to walk around the block. Getting moving outdoors will refresh your mind and add some steps to your day. You can even enlist your co-workers to keep everyone accountable.
9. Drink more water
We all know that water is great for our overall health, but it can also help you to get moving. Get a refillable bottle and make a point to go refill it several times a day. Plus, more water equals more trips to the bathroom, and another excuse to get up and stretch your legs. For bonus points, walk to a bathroom on a different floor and use the stairs.
10. Get a standing desk
If your office has standing desks available, try to snag one for yourself. Many of these are convertible so that you can sit and stand intermittently throughout the day.
Incorporating little reasons to move more throughout your day doesn’t have to be difficult. By changing just a few things in your daily life you can be well on your way to reversing the negative effects of sitting.
Elmore Medical Vein & Laser Treatment Center is the premier vein specialty medical practice in the Central Valley. Dr. Mario H. Gonzalez and his staff offer years of experience and medical expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. Contact us today to set up a consultation appointment.