7 Sneaky Ways to Boost Your Daily Exercise

 

As our lives become increasingly busy, finding the time to fit regular exercise into our daily schedules can be challenging. However, maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for physical and mental well-being. Staying active gives you better sleep and mood, more energy, lower stress levels, and lowers your risk of cardiovascular disease. The good news is that there are plenty of creative and effective ways to sneak exercise into your day, even if you have a packed schedule. Breaking up your exercise into smaller blocks of time (e.g. 10 minutes 3 x day) is really helpful for me.

 

Here are 7 ideas that can help you maximize your daily activity and stay fit despite your busy lifestyle.

 

Utilize Your Morning Routine

While hitting the snooze button a few more times may be tempting, waking up just 15-20 minutes earlier can give you the extra time needed to fit in some morning exercise. I do this most of my weekday mornings. I have my weights and laptop ready to go in my workout corner and I do a 20-30 video of strength, cardio or yoga first thing before my kids are up. I have more energy and focus throughout my day. It also motivates me to eat heathier as well.  

 

My workout corner at home

Maximize Your Commute

If you have the option, consider walking or cycling to work. Not only will this help you sneak in some exercise, but it can also save you money on transportation costs and reduce your carbon footprint. If your commute is too far to walk or cycle, try parking farther away from your workplace or getting off public transportation a stop early to incorporate a brisk walk into your daily routine. When I lived in the city and suburbs, I would walk to the train station or to run errands. Any chance I could walk instead of drive I would do it.

 

Take Advantage of Breaks at Work

Instead of spending your entire lunch break sitting down, use part of that time to get moving. Take 10 minutes to walk around the block, climb a few flights of stairs, or even perform a quick workout in your office using bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups. Moving after a meal also has the benefit of lowering your glucose spikes from a meal which has many health benefits. Additionally, try breaking up long periods of sitting by standing up and stretching or walking around every hour. This is so important for people who sit at a desk all day. You will be more productive and feel better if you get up and move! I have a standing desk, and would consider buying a under the desk treadmill.

 

Sit to stand desk

Make Household Chores More Active

Turn your daily household chores into opportunities for exercise. Vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping can burn calories and engage various muscle groups. Get creative with your chores by adding squats, lunges, or calf raises while washing dishes or folding laundry. If you got to do it anyway, might as well make it fun!

 

Exercise While Watching TV/listening to podcasts

Instead of sitting on the couch during your favorite shows, use that time to fit in some exercise. You can walk or jog in place, perform bodyweight exercises, or even invest in a stationary bike or treadmill to use while watching TV. Alternatively, you can use commercial breaks to fit in short bursts of activity, like jumping jacks or quick stretches. This also has the added benefit of connecting a reward to your healthy habit. Save your favorite show or podcast for when you work out and you will want to do it. 

 

Make Socializing Active

Instead of meeting friends for coffee or drinks, suggest getting together for a walk, a hike, or another physical activity. This way, you can catch up with your friends and stay active at the same time. Plus, you'll be more likely to stick to your exercise routine if you have a workout buddy to hold you accountable.

Another great tip is to exercise when you are at your kid’s sports practice. I walk or jog around the soccer field all the time!

 

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Countless fitness apps and wearable devices can help you track your daily activity, set goals, and stay motivated. Many of these apps also offer short workout routines that you can complete in just a few minutes, making it easy to squeeze in some exercise whenever you have a spare moment.

 Sneaking exercise into your day may seem challenging, but with some creativity and determination, it's possible to maintain an active lifestyle even with a busy schedule. If you still can’t find time, consider asking for help around the house or with the kids so you can have time to exercise. You will be a better partner, and mother and better able to care for your family if you do take the time for yourself. Give these strategies a try and see how they can make a positive impact on your life.

Download my free guide to creating healthy habits like exercising without any willpower needed at https://bit.ly/BusyMomsHealthyHabitsGuide

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Take care,

 Stephanie