You probably already know that physical activity is key to good health, but are you actually moving every day?

 

One of the biggest pitfalls related to exercise is feeling like you need to commit to an intense two-hour routine or need to involve a fancy gym, a trainer breathing down your neck, or heavy-duty weights.

When you fail to do this, you can end up doing nothing instead of moving your body for even just five minutes.

 

The endorphin rush after a good sweat session or even the calmness of a yogic session has the ability to lift your spirits throughout the day, positively influence the way you interact with others, and even help you sleep better at night.

 

The secret not many people realize? Even a short workout has huge benefits, so don’t get tripped up in the all-or-nothing mentality – just get moving.

 

These are my seven favourite ways to squeeze in exercise when I don’t have time for a full-blown workout:

 

1.    Ride your bike or walk to work or while doing errands.

2.    Do some household chores with your favourite music on – loud.

3.    Park at the furthest part of the supermarket car park.

4.    Dance around your living room to upbeat songs.

5.    Always take the stairs.

6.    Go on an after-meal walk.

7.    Do squats, push ups & lunges while the adverts are on when watching TV.

 

The key is to simplify your idea of exercise and take away the ‘drama’ or ‘I haven’t time’ and just move your body in a way that feels great to you. It’s even better if a friend or loved one wants to do it with you. That way, you can motivate each other and hold each other accountable.

 

As Nike says ‘just do it!’.

 

How will you move in a way that’s simple and doable every day this week?