- Guest Contributor
- April 26, 2021
Nicer weather has finally arrived, and it’s the perfect time to rethink your fitness habits. Even if you hate exercise, we have some seriously simple ways to help you get moving every day.
Host Walking or Standing Meetings
Take a walk, play golf or stand up at your desk as you meet with clients, colleagues or co-workers. These movements are good for your body and can jumpstart your creativity and problem-solving skills.
Fidget as Often as Possible
Tap your toes as you type, jiggle your legs as you read and pace your office as you talk on the phone. Fidgeting helps you move all day and can burn calories.
Stretch Your Body
On the hour, stand up and stretch for two minutes. Or stretch after you check email, fill your water bottle or wash your hands. Stretching is a gentle exercise that relieves stress and gets your blood flowing.
Reward Yourself with Movement
Celebrate achievements by doing a happy dance, walking the dog or exploring an art museum. Moving is a healthy way to reward yourself for acing an interview or finishing a big project.
Park Your Car for a Day
Hide your car keys for a day and walk, bike or stroll everywhere you need to go. This change in routine might just become a habit!
Join a Recreational Sports League
In a bowling, badminton, tennis, swim, or kickball league, you stay active and have so much fun that you won’t realize you’re getting exercise. As a bonus, you’ll meet new friends and gain networking opportunities.
Dance Like No One’s Watching
Turn on your favorite tunes, and get your groove on during work breaks. Or dance as you brainstorm new ideas or wait for your coffee to brew. Dancing moves every part of your body and can boost your productivity.
Partner With a Friend
Make plans to take a hike, walk around the mall or join a water aerobics, Zumba or karate class with your bestie. You’ll be more motivated to move when you get active with a friend.
Clean Your House or Office
Grab a broom or dust cloth and get moving. Cleaning burns calories and is a simple way to exercise.
Work in the Yard
Mow grass, pull weeds and nurture your garden. These tasks allow you to play in the dirt, beautify your yard, and have fun as you enjoy fresh air and nature.
Play a Silly Game
Chase your toddlers around the yard, walk backward around the block or skip to the bathroom. When you’re playing games, being silly and having fun, you won’t notice that you’re getting exercise.
If You Hate Exercise, Start Small
Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk down every aisle of the grocery store and park as far away from the store entrance as possible. Or run to the mailbox, do two push-ups every time you visit the bathroom or do jumping jacks between Netflix episodes. These small steps get you moving and might even motivate you to take bigger steps in the future.
You might hate exercise, and that’s okay. Add these simple activities to your routine, and you’ll be moving in no time at home, at work and in your free time.
About the Author: Jennifer Turner writes web content for a variety of clients. As a gig worker, she understands the benefits and challenges of the industry, which is why she prioritizes daily self-care. Find her at WriterAccess.
