Friday, January 11, 2008

Weight Management: Be Active Without Exercise

Try any of these easy-to-do ideas for getting a little more activity - and therefore, fitness - into your day...

Step Out. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Out to Lunch. Take a brisk walk on your lunch break.

Person to Person. Walk down the hall to talk with coworkers instead of phoning.

The Old-Fashioned Way. Open the garage door, rake leaves, and shovel snow by hand.

Bus Stop. Hop off the bus a few blocks early and walk the rest of the way.

Outer Space. Park at the far end of the lot, instead of fighting for the spot near the door.

Clean House! Vacuuming, scrubbing, sweeping, and mopping add up to quite a workout.

Double Duty. Ride a stationary bike, use a stair climber, jump rope, or jog in place while you watch TV. Hide the remote, too.

Kid Around. Play catch, frisbee, touch football, or tag with neighborhood children.

Game Plan. Play miniature golf or go bowling instead of the usual movie.

House Beautiful. Mow the lawn, weed the garden, chop firewood, or sweep the front walk.

Aerobic Shopping. Take a few turns around the shopping center. Join a mall walking club.

Rough It at Tee Time. Skip the golf cart or caddie. You’ll score a great workout by carrying your clubs.

Cut the Rug. Turn on your favorite tune and dance around the living room.

Walkie-Talkie. Get a long phone cord so you can pace while catching up on the latest news.

New Horizons. Get outside and try something new — cross-country or downhill skiing, ice skating, roller blading, or hiking.

Special Events. Join a community Bike- or Walk-a-thon to raise money for charity while meeting your fitness goals.

The Buddy System. Walk with a friend or neighbor. Bonus: You’ll keep each other motivated.

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