5 Ways To Fit Exercise Into Your Life

It’s a new year and you have made the resolution to start exercising, but are you finding it difficult to make time for exercise? If so, no more excuses. Exercise is an important component of a healthy lifestyle, and it’s a great way to maintain your weight over the long haul. Here are some simple ideas to help you squeeze in a workout. Remember, every little bit of activity can help you burn more calories, maintain fitness, and boost your health!

Interval walking. Lace up those walking shoes and take a brisk 20-minute walk around your neighborhood (alternating periods of fast walking with slow). Or if you’re hitting the mall, park at the far end and walk and also take a fast stroll around the perimeter before you leave.

Stair climbing. If you live in a multi-level house, stairs are a readily accessible exercise “tool.” Make it a point to climb up and down them an extra 5 times each day. You can also climb some stairs at the office during your lunch hour. Postpone eating for 10 minutes and sneak in this quick mini-workout.

Yoga. If you don’t know any yoga exercises off the top of your head, pick up a video at your local rental store and do some yoga in front of the TV. Or tune in to one of the many yoga shows on the fitness networks. Yoga not only calms you, it also improves strength, flexibility, and balance.

Weight lifting. If you own hand weights, you can easily do 2 or 3 sets of each of your favorite arm exercises when you have a few minutes of down time. If you don’t have hand weights at your disposal, large cans of beans or chicken broth make great stand-ins.

Off-the-couch crunches. Keep your abs in shape with this simple exercise: Lie on the floor with your butt against the couch and your legs at a 90° angle on the cushions. Put your hands behind your head and crunch up toward the couch. Perform 2 or 3 sets of 15, or as many as you’re able to do.

I hope these exercise tips help you to fit in some exercise into your busy day and until next time, stay happy, healthy and beautiful!