Add exercise without (too much) effort

We’ve all heard different ways to build extra activity into our lives.   Suggestions like parking at the back of the lot when you go to the store or mall, taking the stairs at work, and taking public transit to/from work or school and getting off a couple stops early to walk the rest of the way are all great ways to help you stay active.

 However, sometimes life doesn’t always happen that way. These are great suggestions, but they still might not be enough to meet the daily physical activity requirements to keep your body healthy. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of activity each week, preferably performed in smaller chunks every day.

 The above tips might not be enough for you, but it's relatively easy to sneak additional exercise into your daily routine. Check out some of these helpful tips:

 1. Create a new morning routine. Start your day with 10 minutes of movement indoors or outdoors. Some stretching and a short walk first thing in the morning can be better than caffeine. You can even do some stretching in bed before you get up!

 2. Parents - play catch, fly a kite with your kids or set up badminton net in the backyard and hit the birdie around. Kick a soccer ball around with them or get out the skipping rope and start jumping!

 3. Do a physical activity routine with leaders on TV or play Wii-Fit with your children. Don't be embarrassed. Many senior citizen residences are incorporating Wii Fit games into their exercise rooms.

 4. Trade in your power mower for a push mower. Ask your health care provider about this. Those old push machines are HEAVY.

 5. Take stretch breaks during meetings and/or roll your shoulders and stretch your neck when sitting in front of the computer. You can also stretch your hips while you are sitting down--no matter how small your cubicle is. 

 6. Get in the garden and dig, prune, rake and weed. This is a seasonal activity, of course, but your significant other will appreciate the effort. Shen the snow starts to fly--and it will, it will--consider using a shovel for light dustings or mediocre snowfalls. Remember, though, to take frequent breaks and discontinue if you are feeling light-headed, dizzy, or short of breath.

 With a little creativity and determination, you can be on your way to a healthier life before you even know it.