Archive for month: August, 2014

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that adults participate in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Currently, only 20% of adults meet this goal. Lack of exercise can increase the risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and cancer.

There are many reasons why individuals fail to exercise, but the most commonly stated reason is a lack of time. It can be challenging to find time to exercise when you’re already busy trying to balance work, household responsibilities, family time, and likely a multitude of other obligations. Even with a constant to-do list, you can add activity to your day. Every bit counts.

The following are some ways to increase your activity level, even with a busy schedule:

• Schedule your workout on your calendar to make it a priority.
• Limit screen time. Or, exercise while watching television whether its a treadmill, stationary bike, or even marching in place.
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
• Do calf raises while waiting for copies or while standing in line.
• Use half of your lunch break to go on a walk. You’ll likely be more productive, too.
• Recruit a coworker to take multiple walking breaks with you. You can hold each other accountable.
• If you have the ability to stand at work, do so while working. It will increase the number of calories you burn throughout the day.
• Park further than you normally do at work or while out doing errands.

These are just a few basic suggestions on increasing exercise without changing much of your daily routine. The exercise possibilities throughout the day are endless and can be personalized to fit your unique schedule.