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Simple Ways to Be Active

Most people do not get enough exercise in their ordinary daily routines. Yet our bodies need activity to promote good health and to keep off excess weight. Satisfying this need requires a definite plan and a commitment.

Our bodies are made to move, so when you aren't getting enough activity your body isn't as healthy as it can be.  Being active helps you with more than just losing weight, it helps you sleep better, improves your mood, helps you think better, and helps you just feel healthier all around.

Here are three things to improve your fitness:

  1. Start a regular exercise program if you do not have one already.
    1. Walk, take stairs, every day activities
    2. Vary your activity for success. FITT (Frequency, Intensity, Type, Time)
  1. Choose activities you enjoy.
    1. Swim, dance, workout, hike, play, etc.
    2. Include family and friends. Doing something with others can make your activity more enjoyable and you can help one another stick to it.
  1. Track your activity and celebrate milestones.
    1. Start a chart or log to write down how many minutes of physical activity you do each day. Studies show that tracking helps people stay focused and reach their goals

Cut down on:

Watching TV
Computer games
Sitting for more than 10 minutes at a time

Add:

Leisure Activities - 2-3 times a week:
Softball
Volleyball
Bowling
Skating		 Flexibility & Strength - 3-5 times a week:
Stretching
Weightlifting
Yoga
Aerobic Activities - 30 minutes or more - 4-5 times per week
Jogging
In-line skating
Bicycling
Swimming
Fast Walking
Recreational Activities - 30 minutes or more - 2-3 times per week
Soccer
Basketball
Hiking
Tennis
Dancing
Martial Arts

Everyday … As much as possible
Use stairs instead of the elevator or escalator
Walk the dog
Take longer routes
Park your car further away from the front door at work
Walk to church, work, the store, to see a friend, etc. rather than driving the car
Aim to walk at least 10,000 steps

How can you burn off some of those extra calories before they turn into extra pounds ? Calculate how many calories you burn doing your favorite exercise or activity.

Start with a well-rounded routine

Sources: Carrie Poulson, Health Promotion Specialist, SelectHealth Health and Wellness; Centers for Disease Control