Getting exercise every day can often be impossible. When you come home from a long day of classes, work, and other extracurricular activities, fitting in time for the gym is usually the last thing on your mind. Going to the gym can be a great way to work out, but it doesn’t have to be the only way you can get exercise. There are plenty of small changes you can incorporate into your lifestyle that will help you get more exercise throughout the day.
- YouTube Videos
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Group classes are one of my favorite ways to exercise. I find it easier to stay motivated when other people are there with me because it ignites my competitive streak and gives me a reassuring sense of community. If you aren’t able to attend group fitness classes at your local gym, YouTube can be a great way to mimic them in the comfort of your own home. The great thing about YouTube is that you can turn on the video whenever and pause it if you need a break. The amount of classes and instructors to choose from are endless. My personal favorite channels are Yoga With Adriene and PopSugar Fitness. Adriene has a calming voice and is extremely supportive while coaching you through various yoga poses. PopSugar Fitness has as many classes as you can dream of with a different instructor in every video.
- Taking the Stairs
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If you live in an apartment building, or work somewhere with a lot of stairs, it can be tempting to take the elevator. However, if your lifestyle is too busy to schedule a workout, choosing the stairs instead of the elevator can be a great way to fit some exercise in. While it may seem small, if you choose the stairs everyday you will slowly get in better shape. You can even make it a little more challenging by trying to skip a step or two and alternating your pace.
- Walk or Ride Your Bike
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If available, people generally choose cars, shuttles, or trains to get around. Leaving a little earlier so that you can walk or ride your bike can help you exercise while also allowing you to explore the area you are in and get a breath of fresh air. Another benefit is that it is an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel based transportation. It’s a win-win situation for you and the environment!
- Suggest Hikes to Your Friends
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Often, we dedicate our last remaining minutes of free time to our friends or family. When this happens, you don’t need to sacrifice your workout or spending quality time with your loved ones. Ask your friends to go on a hike with you, or suggest that you walk together to your favorite brunch spot. You could even go to a group fitness class together! Be efficient with your time and combine socializing with working out!
I hope you find these tips useful and are able to implement them into your daily routine! Working out doesn’t have to be a monotonous task that takes up a ton of your time; it can be accomplished in even the most mundane moments and can really make a difference in your health. Not only will these will these tips help you exercise, they will give you a sense of accomplishment as you go throughout your day.