It’s a well-known fact that Americans are becoming more and more obese with each passing year. In fact, virtually the whole world is.
Even Jamaica is currently struggling with obesity, especially in women. I know, I just killed every fantasy you had of Jamaican women with bikini bodies.
We can blame it on genetics all we want, but ultimately those hips and that muffin top are our responsibility to trim down to a healthy size.
This can prove difficult in a tough economy, where many people work long hours and two jobs. Even so, here are four ways to work some exercise into your busy schedule.
1. Take the Stairs
Some companies lock the staircase off for emergencies only, but when you have the option to take the stairs, go for it. The escalator and elevator may save you some time and convenience, but it will cost you in medical bills and a few years off your life later on.
The recommended daily step-count for adults is 10,000. Install a pedometer app on your phone to see where you rank, and track your progress.
2. Bike to Work or the Store
They say you never forget to ride a bike, and most of us did a lot of riding as kids and in our teens. If you’ve never ridden a bike before, then it’s not too late to learn.
Biking to work and other nearby locations helps you burn calories, and tone your legs and butt. It also helps to improve cardiovascular health, while burning fat.
3. Sign up for Charity Runs and Walks
No one is too busy to give back to their community, or a cause. If you really want to make a difference, you’ll find a way. One easy way is to sign up for charity walks or runs.
Most companies sponsor an event like this at least once per year; whether for the goodwill, the amazing advertising opportunities, or both. Training with employees will build a sense of teamwork, while you burn those calories, and build your stamina.
4. Go Hiking
From the outside, hiking looks boring. You go into the woods, you walk, and walk, and walk, and then you go home. Who really wants to do that? Millions of people around the world every day, apparently.
Once you get into it, walking on hiking trails becomes not just a form of exercise for you and the dog, but a great place to clear your mind and appreciate life outside the hustle and bustle of the city.
In fact, even big cities have trails and parks nearby. You just need to find them.
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Finding time to exercise and stay fit when work and family obligations play tug of war with our time can be difficult. But with these tips, you’re sure to get in a few extra steps or even a 5KM run, to help take you one step closer to your fitness goals.
Just take the stairs! This is the hardest for me- five flights is a lot at 7 a.m., but I think I’ll start tomorrow by holding myself accountable!
Great post.
Sounds like a plan, Jackie. You can start by taking the stairs down, instead of up. Pay attention to the shoes as well. Not sure taking that many flights in heels is a good idea if you wear them!
All the best!
Hiking turned into trail running for me and it serves as my therapy! 🙂
That’s amazing. I never did do any trail runs, but I’ve thought about it. I always end up wanting to stop and look at this or that or take pictures of the scenery.
Thanks ! We have some great charity events in the area . I saw this post and signed up for one of them ! Thanks
Tilly, that makes my day! What kind of event did you sign up for? Is it another 5kM run?
Yes ! Color vibe 5k ! I’m excited to get out there and enter the madness lol
Awesome. I did that last year. I had a great time.
Great post! I am a nutritionist and I just started my own blog about healthy and affordable eating, so feel free to check it out! 🙂
Thank you! I just followed your blog. 🙂
Simple yet wonderful ideas!!
Thank you! I hope you’re putting them to use 🙂
Hi, I strongly believe that individual lifestyle and eating habit is responsible for maintaining weight. One can exercise as much as he or she can without the right portion of meal, the hard work is wasted.
I know a lot of people who eat healthy and are overweight or obese. But all the people I know who exercise regularly are fit.
Even athletes often have to overeat to stay healthy, because they burn so many calories. I eat whatever I want, whenever I want it, and then work out. And I have abs. So I’ll have to disagree with you on that one.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I admit, I actually cringed reading this. Guilt. I’ve never been so unfit in my life. My daughter is 3 1/2 months old and I can still feel the strain on my back. If I find a spare hour I dive for the bed bc sleep is just never enough. I think this belly is gonna stay with me a while. Yikes! I need a pill out this rut .
She’s only 3 and a half months, so that’s not so bad. When you hit a year and haven’t made any progress you can probably start kicking yourself with guilt. I would suggest starting slow though, and involving hubby. Maybe you can take walks together in the evening, or head to the beach.