Healthy Living

Here are some ideas to help you fit physical activity into your day at the office or at home. We know you're busy, but adding physical activity into your day isn't as hard as it seems. You may already be doing some of them.

Begin by being ready for activity wherever you are. Keep some comfortable clothes and a pair of walking or running shoes in your car and office.

Make physical activity part of your daily commute. Park further from work or get off the train one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk down the hall instead of using the phone or e-mail. Take a walk during a morning or afternoon break. Ask a friend to go with you. Take a walk around the block during part of your lunch hour. Pick some dining spots 10 to 15 minutes away and walk to and from lunch. Sneak in a brief walk after work but before you get home. This way you are physically active before dinner and other evening obligations. Play with the kids. Walk the dog. If you find it too difficult to be active after work, try it before work. A brief walk is a great way to start off the day.

Don't forget, you can also get moderate physical activity and clean the house at the same time. Do indoor chores that let you move your arms and legs such as washing the windows, scrubbing the tub, or reorganizing your closet. If it's a nice day, step outside and mow the grass or wash the car. Spruce up your garden or plant a new one.

As with any sport or exercise, start out slowly then try to stay active for longer periods of time until 30 to 45 minutes becomes easy. Now, go for that walk.

CDC, Physical Activity Tips, 1999. http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/phys_act.htm