4 Simple Ways to Increase Your Physical Activity
Time is a precious thing, now more than ever. As we juggle our busy lives packed with work, parental duties, daily chores, and a social life, it can feel like we barely have a moment to catch our breath. So, the idea of dragging ourselves to the gym or squeezing in a workout after a long day of meeting obligations is a tall order for anyone.
Why being active is important
Being more physically active and moving our bodies daily — even just a little — is important for a number of reasons. Physical activity helps improve and maintain the health of our bones, muscles and cardiovascular system. As we get older we lose muscle and gain fat, this process speeds up over time if we lead sedentary lives. At its most destructive, a lack of regular activity can lead to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, arthritis and osteoporosis.
Small changes go a long way
Though this might sound alarming, there’s no need to panic quite yet. Even the smallest changes to your day-to-day lifestyle will have a profound effect on your health and well-being, all while helping you reach your fitness goals.
1. Walk to work
Leave the car at home and walk to work. As most of us spend way too much of our day seated, certain muscles start to fall asleep leading to limited function. Swapping your car for walking to and from work will not only result in you saving money but also feeling fitter and healthier. In addition, after a long stressful day at work, walking might actually improve your mood and relax you.
Top tip: If your workplace is too far to walk to, why not drive half the distance then walk the rest of the way. You can do the same if you take public transportation to work. Get off one or two stops early. The brisker the walk the better to get your heart rate going. If it still seems too far, you can always cycle instead.
Time is a precious thing, now more than ever. As we juggle our busy lives packed with work, parental duties, daily chores, and a social life, it can feel like we barely have a moment to catch our breath. So, the idea of dragging ourselves to the gym or squeezing in a workout after a long day of meeting obligations is a tall order for anyone.
Why being active is important
Being more physically active and moving our bodies daily — even just a little — is important for a number of reasons. Physical activity helps improve and maintain the health of our bones, muscles and cardiovascular system. As we get older we lose muscle and gain fat, this process speeds up over time if we lead sedentary lives. At its most destructive, a lack of regular activity can lead to diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, arthritis and osteoporosis.
Small changes go a long way
Though this might sound alarming, there’s no need to panic quite yet. Even the smallest changes to your day-to-day lifestyle will have a profound effect on your health and well-being, all while helping you reach your fitness goals.
1. Walk to work
Leave the car at home and walk to work. As most of us spend way too much of our day seated, certain muscles start to fall asleep leading to limited function. Swapping your car for walking to and from work will not only result in you saving money but also feeling fitter and healthier. In addition, after a long stressful day at work, walking might actually improve your mood and relax you.
Top tip: If your workplace is too far to walk to, why not drive half the distance then walk the rest of the way. You can do the same if you take public transportation to work. Get off one or two stops early. The brisker the walk the better to get your heart rate going. If it still seems too far, you can always cycle instead.
2. Take the stairs
Unless you work or live in a skyscraper, taking the stairs instead of the elevator is an easy way to increase your daily activity levels — the best part is it won’t take much time. Going up the stairs elevates your heart rate and tones your glutes.
3. Take a lunchtime stroll
Instead of eating lunch at your desk — which isn’t good for you in many ways — why not go for a quick 10-15 minute walk? The fresh air will clear your mind, help you avoid that afternoon slump, and you’ll also be one step closer to your fitness goals.
4. Do an 8fit workout
Our workouts may be short but they’re exceptionally effective and the added bonus is you can do them anywhere. No need to drag yourself to the gym when you can do a targeted workout in the comfort of your own four walls. For the best results aim to do our full-body 8fit workouts at least 4 times a week
It might be raining, it might be cold, you might be tired, it might be late, yet despite these obstacles, there are always ways to get and stay physically active every day. Why not try incorporating one of my tips into your daily routine? I promise, you’ll feel so much better and your body will thank you for it. Your body is a precious companion, so treat it well and it will return the favor.
