Staying active is one of the key factors in maintaining long-term health. Fitting exercise and even moderate activity into your daily routine, however, isn’t always easy. Whether it’s because of a busy schedule or a health condition, you may find it difficult to get the daily exercise you need. The following are five easy ways to stay active.
1. Walk Everywhere
You probably already know that walking is one of the easiest and best forms of exercise. But are you taking advantage of all your opportunities to walk? Are you walking up and down the stairs in your home or apartment instead of always taking the elevators or staying seated for long periods of time? Even walking to the end of the drive each day to get the mail instead of picking it up from the car window can make a difference. There are a few tips to follow that will encourage you to walk more.
- Choose Comfortable Shoes– If your feet are sore because of shoes that fit poorly, you’ll be less likely to spend time walking. A physical therapist can help you select the best shoes.
- Use a Pedometer– A pedometer is a low tech item that counts the number of steps you take. It’s a fun way to keep track of how far you’ve walked.
- Walk with A partner– Having someone who will keep you accountable will help you stay motivated on the days you don’t feel like walking.
2. Get a Pet
Getting a pet, especially a dog, will help improve your overall activity level. You’re more likely to enjoy moving if you have a cat or a dog to play with. Taking daily walks and spending time with your pet outdoors is a fantastic way to get moderate exercise that is both fun and healthy. Having a pet may also reduce anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
3. Cook Your Meals at Home
Cooking at home not only means healthier eating but is an easy way to stay active and burn a few extra calories. Standing on your feet, moving around the kitchen, and chopping and mixing food burns a lot more calories than eating out. When you take into account shopping for groceries, pushing a cart, and the clean-up after a meal is over, this can add up to a lot of activity.
4. Take Advantage of Breaks at Work
If you have a desk job, you should already know how important it is to get up and periodically start moving around. You can walk the stairs or around the perimeter of your office during lunch breaks. There are even simple exercises and stretches you can do at your desk. If you don’t work outside the home, you can still incorporate walking breaks and intermittent stretching into your daily routine.
5. Visit a Physical Therapist
Physical therapy can help improve long-term injuries that never completely healed and reduce the pain from chronic conditions such as arthritis. Even if you’re in relatively good health, physical therapy can help you stay active and feel more energetic. A physical therapist can design an exercise routine that can improve your overall stamina, strength, and flexibility. Whether it’s athletic improvement or the ability to carry out daily activities with greater ease and endurance, physical therapy can provide a number of benefits.
Making a few simple changes in your life can dramatically increase your activity level. These changes, along with visiting a physical therapist, can improve your health and overall well-being.
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact Walker Physical Therapy!
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Tags: exercise, walking, running, physical therapy, wellness, health