One of the biggest reasons many of us don’t exercise is because we “don’t have enough time.” What most really mean by this notion is that they don’t have the energy after a long day of work. In reality, exercise doesn’t have to take more than 30 minutes a day. Did you know that changing a few simple aspects of your daily routine can shave off hundreds (if not thousands) of calories per week? So if you simply can’t squeeze in that extra 30 minutes for the gym, here are a few ways to get more exercise without actually “working out.”
Take the Stairs At Least Twice a Day
Whether it’s when you get home from work, at the mall, or during your lunch break, make a commitment to take the stairs two or three times a day. Over the course of the week you will burn several hundred calories!
Sit on a Yoga Ball at Work
Bring a yoga ball to work and sit on it. Hopefully you’re in an environment where this is possible because yoga balls are amazing for keeping your core in shape. Balancing on the ball keeps your core engaged throughout the work day making your abs tighter and your body stronger.
Walk Home From Work (Preferably with Ankle and/or Arm Weights)
Walking to and from work is one of the best ways to get your exercise in for the day. If you want an extra effective workout, strap on ankle and/or arm weights! How convenient and time-efficient to get to work and get your workout all at the same time?
Bike to Work
If you don’t have time to walk, bike to work a few times a week! Set your gears to add resistance and strap on some ankle weights if you’re feeling extra motivated!
Sign up for a Recreational Sports Team
There’s no better way to get an amazing, fun workout than through playing your favorite sport! Join a softball, soccer, basketball or other team sport to keep it fun and motivating. If your teammates are depending on you, you’re much more likely to show up and play. Plus “working out” isn’t always fun, but playing sports is!
Shop/Carry Your Own Groceries
We know city-dwellers just love Fresh Direct and easy food delivery services, but shopping for and carrying your own groceries home is a great way to get some extra exercise in. If you really want a challenge, take the stairs!
Do Your Own Chores
Doing your own chores such as gardening, cleaning, dog walking etc. not only helps you get more exercise, but it will save you a lot of money! You win the trifecta with this one: a clean house, more exercise, and more cash in your bank account! This is a no brainer.
Dance
If there is an opportunity to dance -take it! Whether you’re at a wedding, a club, a bar, a bar mitzvah -whatever- take any and all opportunities to dance. It burns a ton of calories and it’s certainly better than sitting at the table tapping your fingers or trying to talk over the loud music.
YouTube
Lastly, if you don’t mind “working out” but don’t want to spend time or money at the gym, look no further than YouTube. You’ll find a plethora of workout videos from Jillian Michaels, Fitness Blender, Beach Body and more, most for free! Simply type what you’re looking for in the search box and you’ll find a huge selection of workout videos -all from the comfort of your home!
