7 easy ways to move more
1. Explore your neighbourhoodWalk to your nearest school or grocery store, and time yourself. You may be surprised at how quickly you can get where you want to go without driving.
2. Walk and talk
Got a casual meeting at work? Or a teen that wants to talk through a problem? Go for a walk while you talk. Kids like it because they don’t really have to look at you, and you get away from interruptions. You can also grab a 10-minute walk with a friend instead of a coffee break, or over lunch. If you live in a seniors’ residence, start a hall-walking group.
3. Encourage active kids
Find ways to get your kids moving and you’ll move more, too! Try kicking a ball with them while getting caught up on their day. As a family, you can decide to try a new activity together every season: snowshoe, curl, hike, bike, dance, bowl, fish, ice-skate, ski, swim, in-line skate, walk, run or play tag.
4. TV plus
Most TV shows don’t require 100 per cent of your attention. Think about what else you can do while watching. Stretch out the day’s stresses. Do knee bends while you catch up on the laundry.
5. Pick your spot
At the mall, at work or when visiting friends, park just 10 minutes away and walk. If you take a bus, get off one or two stops earlier. Or create a walking school bus with the other parents in your neighbourhood, instead of car-pooling the kids to school.
6. Take the stairs
At home or at work, take every opportunity to take the stairs. It’s a great weight-bearing and bone-strengthening exercise that helps build muscles and endurance. Pretend the elevator is broken!
7. Take 10
Find any excuse to get 10 rejuvenating minutes of activity while you do other things. Roll your shoulders and stretch your neck when sitting in front of the computer. Contract your stomach and back muscles while sitting in your chair or on the bus. Use a rake instead of a leaf blower, or a push lawnmower instead of a power lawnmower. Get out there!
For more information, check out Canada’s Physical Activity Guide.
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Disclaimer: Your health care provider knows you, your health history and the kinds of changes you can make to improve your health. This website is not intended to replace advice from your health provider.
