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Hectic schedules may be to blame. It can be tough to exercise when juggling work, school, family, and more. Exercising does not have to be a perfectly scheduled , sweat inducing routine. If we find ourselves too busy to fit in gym or yoga sessions into our everyday lives, even small and simple activities can make a difference, just as long as we don’t become completely inactive. Quick and simple physical activities may not replace actual physical workouts but it can supplement our bodies.
Here is how to incorporate exercise into our daily lives while still keeping to our busy schedules.
# 1 : Opt for stairs
With your morning coffee in one hand, and your briefcase or purse on the other, opting for the lift will be a more convenient option. This however, won’t contribute much to your fitness.
According to HealthStatus, a 140-pound woman will burn 9 calories per minute by running up the stairs.
# 2 : Ride a bike
More and more Malaysians are opting to cycle now that bicycles are becoming more and more easy to fold and carry around. If you’re working in the city, or if you commute frequently using the LRT or MRT, investing in a foldable bicycle can be a great boon.
Rather than flagging a cab or waiting for the bus to get to your destination, just hook up your bike and ride away. According to the Livestrong, a 150-lb. person biking at less than 10 mph will burn 90 calories in 20 minutes.
Check out Lazada’s selection here.
# 3 : Work out at the workplace
I don’t mean taking off your jacket and throwing yourself to the floor for some high endurance push-up routine. Just keep a few dumbbells under your desk with varying weights. Experts suggest 2 to 3 reps of 15 to 20 mini exercises such as bicep curls,overhead presses, and ab crunches.
# 4 : Don’t just wait
If you’ve popped something into the over and have about 30 minutes to wait, or if you’re waiting for the kettle to boil your water, or while you’re watching a movie and commercials roll in – seize the opportunity and do some intensity intervals such as skipping or running on the spot.
# 5: Maximize walk time
With convenience and accessibility all around, it’s not surprising that we sometimes forget how to go back to basics. Walking is a simple form physical activity that can maintain a healthy weight and prevent or manage various conditions.
If you’re waking up at 8am every morning, perhaps consider setting your alarm an hour early for a brisk walk around your neighbourhood or a nearby park. Another way to incorporate walking is parking further away from your intended destination.
Say you’ve got to grab a couple of things from the store – park a block away. Or park at a lower level from the elevator so it encourages you to walk the extra mile in your parking basement.