3 Easy Ways to Squeeze in More Exercise

Logically, the majority of us recognize the importance of regular exercise. Even the federal government has made recommendations for physical activity: American adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise) every week. The guidelines also recommend that Americans take part in muscle strengthening exercises twice per week. But the reality is that most U.S. residents fall short of those goals.

In fact, a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics revealed that only 23% of American adults ages 18 to 64 are hitting all of the federally recommended benchmarks for physical fitness. And according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 80.2 million people (aged six and above) across the nation are considered to be physically inactive.

One reason Americans might be putting off their workouts? They think they’re simply too busy for them. Although many people actually aspire to be workaholics, it often comes at the expense of their own health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are three tips that’ll help you sneak in more exercise into your already packed schedule.

1. Do Some Desk Exercises:The typical adult sits for approximately eight hours a day while at the office. But if you’re stuck in a cubicle all day long, there are still plenty of exercises you can do at your desk. Try some back twists, shoulder raises, leg planks, and other stretches throughout the day to improve posture, boost energy, and burn calories.
2. Take the Stairs: Every little bit of exercise helps. If your apartment building or workplace has an elevator, you might want to consider working stairs into your regular routine instead. Not only will you actually save time, but you can burn around one calorie per 10 to 20 stairs you take.
3. Do a Lap During Lunch:Approximately 67% of office workers eat lunch at their desks, but this can be harmful to your health. Not only are you more likely to get sick, but you’ll also end up eating more or making poorer food choices. As an alternative, make it a point to walk around the office or even take a lap outside during your lunch hour before or after you eat. You’ll feel more energized and productive upon clocking back in.

With these quick tips in mind, you should be able to fit in a bit more physical activity without even realizing it.