Sunday, November 29, 2009

Make Time for Exercise

We all know exercise is good for us. The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association recommend moderately intense cardiovascular activity 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Regular physical activity helps decrease disease risk, maintain weight, change body composition, and increase metabolism.

When is the best time to exercise? Well, anytime! However, life, work, and family commitments can get in the way of our regular exercise routine. The solution lies in time management. If you manage your time better, you can easily make time for exercise. See below for some tips on how to create exercise time this holiday season:
  • Skip the elevator/escalator and take the stairs. If you are shopping for the holidays, take extra laps around the mall.
  • Park your car farther away when running errands or going to work.
  • Go for a morning or night walk with your family.
  • Try doing short bouts of exercise throughout the day...10 minutes in the am, 10 minutes around lunch time, and 10 minutes in the pm.
  • Try fitting in some jumping jacks, squats, arm circles, or push-ups when you first wake up.
  • Do you have a dog? Instead of letting your dog out in the backyard, take them for a daily walk.
  • Cut down on your TV and computer time. Skip one TV show or avoid going online at night. Less TV and computer time create more exercise time!
  • Tune your TV to a fitness channel and begin your free workout. Find your favorite yoga, pilates, or cardio workout.
  • Bring your sneakers to work and walk with co-workers during your lunch break.
  • Turn on the radio and start dancing. Instead of watching 'Dancing with the Stars', dance with your family and friends!
  • Skip the leaf blower and start using the rake. Yard work and gardening count!
  • Plan something involving a physical activity every weekend: hiking, biking, walking, flag football, golf, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, etc.
  • Do you have a stationary bike or treadmill at home? Watch your favorite TV show while working out.

Regular exercise is important. Always check with your doctor first before you start to exercise.

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