Saturday, July 12, 2008

8 Easy Ways to Exercise Throughout the Day

If you are finding that you don’t have enough time to exercise due to a busy work or home life, there are techniques that you can use throughout the day that will accelerate your weight loss. Most of these can be done just about anywhere and only require a few extra minutes.

1. Take the stairs.

If you work in a building with an elevator, try taking the stairs at least once a day. It may take a little bit longer, but you’ll be burning fat while you walk. This of course may not always be feasible, but try to do it at least once a day. You’ll have even better results if you completely stop using the elevator.

2. Suck it in.

It sounds silly, but sucking in your stomach throughout the day can actually help tighten your abs and whittle your waist. No one even has to know you’re doing it. Just suck in your stomach for five minutes of time throughout the day. This can really help if your exercise options are limited and many women have managed to lose whole dress sizes after just a few weeks.

3. Start fidgeting.

Fidgeting actually does burn calories, particularly if you’re someone who always sits stills. We’re not advocating driving your co-workers insane with constant movement, but fidgeting with your feet under the desk can make a difference.

4. Use housework.

Housework can actually burn more calories than running and as an extra bonus, your house will be spic and span. Try to set aside thirty minutes a day to vacuum, dust and sweep. You’ll be getting a good workout and you’ll be getting your heart rate up.

5. Get creative.

If your options are pretty limited, try finding ways to exercise on your lunch break. Walk around outside or at a mall. You’ll burn more calories than you would simply sitting at a table.

6. Try leg bends.

You can really work on your lower body without anyone noticing by practicing leg bends under your desk. This is great if you’re frequently on the phone and bored out of your skull. Simply unbend your knees and raise up your legs - hold the position for a few seconds and lower them back down. Try several repetitions of this throughout the day.

7. Ask about a company gym.

If you work for a large company, they may be willing to put in a gym for employees. You can then exercise on your lunch break, before you come in for the day or before you leave. Since having fit employees generally means an increase in productivity, most will be willing to consider the addition.

8. Get a desk treadmill / pedal exerciser.

One of the latest innovations is a little treadmill that sits under your desk. You can work your legs all day long without making a sound and you’ll stay healthier. Most are quite small and operate on leg power only. This is a discrete way to get your exercise during working hours.

source: weightladder.com

No comments: