Get out the leash and walk your dog. It’s a great activity for both man and man’s best friend. You can do this before work, during your lunch break, or after work.
Find a walking or activity buddy. Friends help you stay motivated and make physical activity more fun!
Mall or store walk. Are you sweating (or shivering) at the idea of walking outside? Take a brisk stroll around your local shopping area instead. Window shop, people watch and give your heart a workout in a climate-controlled environment.
Join a team. Pick an activity you love and round up some friends. Team sports can be fun and keep you motivated and accountable.
Walk and talk. Even if you’re glued to your phone for work calls, you don’t have to be glued to your seat. Make it a habit to talk and walk and/or have a “walking meeting.” Some workplaces have walking paths to make it even easier to burn while you earn.
Use a desk cycle/peddler. If you have to sit at your desk for long periods of time, try using a desk peddler to get some activity in. You can go in on one with your department or team and share it throughout the day to reduce costs and increase activity.
Take the stairs. The elevator may go up — but it doesn’t make your heart rate climb. Take the stairs instead. You may huff and puff at first, but over time, your body will thank you.
Dance! Choose three songs that make you want to move and dance in the comfort of your home. No equipment required to have fun and get fit!
Tune into fitness during TV time. Reject your inner couch potato. Walk, jog in place or use equipment at home or at the gym while you watch your favorite shows.
Try an at-home exercise video. YouTube is full of short videos that get you doing exercises in the comfort, privacy, and temperature-controlled environment of your home.
Play with your kids or grandkids! Pick up a ball and/or get moving together to encourage fitness for the whole family.
Take fitness breaks instead of food breaks. Go for a 10-minute walk, do a couple sets of push-ups or sit-ups, or climb the stairs instead of hitting the vending machine for snacks. Not only will you feel more energized, but you’ll have burned (instead of gained) several more calories.
If these ideas don’t work for you, find something that you enjoy! If you think you can’t find the recommended 30 minutes of activity in your day, you can still get heart healthy benefits by dividing your time into two or three 10- to 15-minute segments a day.
Care you will love.
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