OK, you know you’re supposed to exercise every day. But it’s time-consuming. And it can be expensive, if you have to pay for a gym membership or fancy shoes or equipment.
Or maybe you feel intimidated or you don’t like sweating in public or you haven’t quite worked your way up to a formal exercise routine.
The American Diabetes Association has some suggestions for incorporating more physical activity into our day that don’t require new shoes or a gym membership, but will help you burn a few calories and keep your blood sugar levels under control.
At work
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator, at least part of the way.
- If it’s allowed, get up once an hour and take a quick walk around the office.
- Stand up and stretch at your desk.
- If you eat out for lunch, walk to the restaurant.
- If you take public transportation to work, get off a stop earlier and walk the extra block or two to the office.
- If you have your own office, close the door and use a speaker phone or cell phone so you can walk around your office during conference calls.
- Fidget a little if it’s appropriate. Wiggle your arms and legs.
At home
- Take the dog for a walk.
- Do your own yardwork, if you’re able. Pushing a lawnmower and raking leaves burn a lot of calories.
- Toss the ball around with the kids or play Frisbee.
- Walk or jog in place during the commercials.
- Carry laundry and other items up the stairs in two trips.
- Walk around the house or up and down the stairs while you’re on the phone.
Out and about
- While shopping, park farther from the door and walk the extra few steps.
- Walk every aisle at the grocery store.
- If you’re waiting for your flight at the airport, take a walk around the terminal.
- On road trips, stop every few hours and get out and stretch for a few minutes.
The bottom line is to find ways in your everyday life to move more.
