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On New Year's eve, we make all kinds of promises to ourselves. We’re going to be kinder, work harder, eat less, and spend more time with family. And, of course, we’re going to get into better shape. But when it comes to exercise, most of us have a hard time living up to our own good intentions. One of the biggest problems is finding time to work out, especially when we’re trying to maintain a career and an active social life.
Why not give it a shot? Try some of these suggestions that let you take advantage of your normal, everyday activities and make small strides toward being a healthier and fitter you.
Refuse the Elevator
For most of us, it’s practically automatic: If an elevator’s available, we’ll take it. But stairs offer repeated opportunities for exercise, if only for a minute or so at a time. Obviously, if you work on the 30th floor of a building, the stairs might not be practical. But if you constantly have to go between floors that are only a flight or two apart, then why not take walk? It might not be that easy at first, but after you’ve done it consistently for a few days, you’ll think nothing of shooting up a flight or two. Do the same thing when you’re at the mall or the airport, where you can bypass the escalators.
Turn your Cubicle into a Gym
There are all kinds of opportunities for hidden exercise while you’re at work. The simple act of stretching—your legs, your arms, your back—is great for your body. An added bonus: It will reduce your stress, too. So flex and relax your muscles throughout the day, whether you’re sitting at your desk or at a meeting. While you’re on a call, stand up and stretch, or lift a paperweight (or a five-pound weight or a can of soup). Above all, avoid being sedentary. Make yourself move around several times during the day, even if your job doesn’t require it.
Don’t wait for the good Parking Spots
It’s kind of funny, isn’t it? We’ll spend fifteen minutes circling the mall parking lot, waiting for that primo spot close to the entrance, when we could just accept a spot a bit farther away and actually get to our shopping faster. But time isn’t the only reason to park a few rows farther from Macy’s. If you can get into a habit of choosing parking spaces that aren’t quite as close to the store—even when the lot’s not full—you will easily and consistently get yourself a few extra minutes of walking. Of course, it’s important to be safe when you’re alone, especially at night, and there will be times when you’re in a hurry and can’t spare any extra time. But if you have an extra minute or two and can enjoy a nice, brisk stroll on your way to the entrance, take advantage of the opportunity to burn a few extra calories.
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