I understand, not everyone enjoys or wants to workout, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do things each day to keep you strong, mobile and healthy. When you hear getting in better shape, you probably naturally think of the gym and another monthly expense that comes along with it.
But, there are plenty of things you do on a daily basis outside a gym setting that can get you in better health. These are forms of incidental exercise. Here are some examples of where you can start…
Taking the Stairs: Avoid the elevator, take the stairs instead to keep your legs strong. Walking steps builds muscle in your quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves and even gets your heart rate up if you pick up the pace.
Grab a Basket Instead of Pushing a Cart: Next time you need to shop small, grab a basket instead of a cart. Carrying your groceries in a basket builds core and shoulder strength.
Squat Instead of Leaning Forward: How many times a day do you bend down to lift or pick something up? Instead of simply leaning forward, lower in a squat. This builds muscles in your lower back, glutes, quads and core.
Check Your Posture: Sitting or standing up straight is actually hard work until it becomes second nature and natural to you. When you sit or stand correctly, the muscles in your core and lower back are engaged.
Take Walk Meetings: Schedule face to face meetings in a place where you can stand, or take a walk together while discussing work. Anytime you are moving your body and working muscles, you are burning calories and improving your health.
Take Water Breaks: Keeping a water bottle on your desk and keeping it filled is a great way to remember your daily water intake. Yes, you may have to get up to pee a little more often, but regular water intake flushes out toxins, keeps you energized, helps regulate digestion and keeps joints lubricated.
Get Out in the Yard: Gardening is a great way to get a workout in and keep your yard looking nice. With yard work, you are using muscles in your shoulders, back, core, and legs.
I always say, you don’t need a gym membership to be in shape and healthy. Utilize your surroundings to be healthier. Fitness doesn’t have an age limit and almost everyone can be in better shape if they just put in the effort.
Ashley LaMorte is a nationally certified fitness instructor and has been in the fitness industry close to a decade. Over the years she has gotten the opportunity to instruct group X boot camps at gyms and train private clients from all walks of life, all over the Bay Area. She now has her own mobile fitness business, LaMorte Lift. Learn more at LaMorteLift.com.
