Getting more movement and exercise in your everyday life can seem like a daunting task. Gym memberships are expensive. It’s hard sometimes to find time to exercise. But a few small changes can help you get a little healthier and feel a little better. And a little bit can go a long way.
Before starting any exercise regimen, always check with your doctor first.
Here are some changes you can make:
- Walk while you talk. Do you have to make a lot of phone calls at your job? Take a walk while you are on the phone.
- Go for walks with family and pets. Some children especially like walks because they can have your undivided attention while they tell their stories.
- Park far away from the door. While running errands, park on the other side of the parking lot to get some exercise going in and out.
- Use the stairs. Skip the elevator and use the stairs in office buildings.
- Walk when you can. If you are going somewhere only a mile or two from your house, walk there instead of driving.
- Start small and add a little bit each day. If you are out of shape, just a little more each day will help you reach your goal.
To walk safely:
- Watch out for traffic.
- Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- Use the sidewalk where available.
- Walk facing traffic when no sidewalk is present.
- Use headphones that are not sound reducing or sound proof. It’s important to be able to hear when you are on a walk.
- Avoid walking while impaired, especially without assistance.
- Look both ways crossing the street.
- Cross the street at crosswalks when available.
- Cross in an area where you can be seen, not between parked cars when there are no crosswalks.
Walking is a low-intensity but highly effective way to get exercise into your daily life. It is a small thing you can do that doesn’t require a membership or taking time out. With these tips, you can lead a healthier life.
By Bethanie Ryan
