Small daily habits for a more active lifestyle

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Small daily habits for a more active lifestyle

It’s easier than you think to get fit and physically active. Here are 30 super sneaky ways to add more activity to your daily routine.

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Exercise during commercial breaks

Studies show that it’s how much you exercise cumulatively, not consecutively, that matters. Try using commercial breaks or pausing whatever program you’re streaming to do a few exercises, such as sit-ups, squats, or push-ups. Bonus points if you can watch TV while working out on an exercise bike or a treadmill.

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Take the stairs

Did you know taking the stairs instead of the elevator will increase the number of calories you burn in a day? It’s a fact!

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Fidget

Researchers have found that people who tap their feet or shift around in their seat during meetings or long meals burn more calories and have healthier hearts than folks who don’t.

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Clean your house

All that spraying and scrubbing can add up to a decent workout. Even tidying at the end of the day will increase your activity level.

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Park the next street over

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Sing (even just to yourself)

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Clear your closet

It takes a lot of lifting and general movement to organize a closet—and keep it that way every day. Who knew staying fit and active could be as simple as staying on top of your folding?

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Refill your water cup regularly

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Skip delivery

Instead of having a delivery person do all the heavy lifting, order takeout. This will force you to walk (or drive and then walk) to your restaurant of choice.

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Ditch the cellphone

Some researchers have found that our collective cellphone addiction is harming our physical health. Schedule in some non-smartphone time and get moving instead.

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Bake or cook

All of the standing, chopping, and mixing involved in these activities will increase your caloric burn and improve your fitness. Stick to creating heart-healthy dishes to boost your health even further.

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Transit

If you live and work close to a downtown core, it’s likely you have the option of taking public transportation to work. Studies have shown that those who commute via transit are thinner and healthier than their car-taking counterparts.

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Stand when folding laundry

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Make your bed

There is effort involved in untangling sheets and making a bed, so strive to make this a daily habit. As an added bonus, researchers have found that people who make their bed every morning are more successful than those who don’t.

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Stretch

Touching your toes every morning when you hop out of bed is a great way to get your body’s blood flowing. You’ll also experience a surge of energy thanks to the increased production of feel-good hormones called endorphins.

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Schedule work breaks

For some, the key to productivity is taking breaks every hour. So, why not schedule some standing time! Make the most of those minutes by strolling around your office or heading outside.

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Use a shopping basket

Rather than pushing your groceries in a cart, put them in a basket and sneak in some bicep curls while you walk around the grocery store.

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29/29 SLIDES

Tags: Active, Daily, Habits, Lifestyle, small