Life has its own way of making exercising seem difficult. But the truth is, it really doesn’t have to be.  

Even if you are a full-time parent, have a 9-to-5 job, working night shifts or getting through a rush week at school, you can still fit exercise into your day and maintain an active lifestyle.

 

Here are 8 ways to keep yourself moving despite a brutally rigorous schedule.

 

 

1. Clean up!

 

If you hate going to the gym, you can still burn calories and break sweat at home. Regular chores like mopping and washing the dishes require you to use different muscles in your body. Even stripping and remaking beds for 30 minutes can torch 187 calories.

 

 

2. Take the stairs.

 

Taking the stairs may be boring and repetitive yet it’s one the best and easiest way to keep moving. In fact, studies have shown that climbing the stairs burns more calories than slow-paced jogging. It is estimated that an average individual can get rid at least 0.1 calories for every step she climbs.

Plus, it is a great form of cardio that helps strengthen and tone your muscles and allow better blood flow in your body.

 

 

3. Park your car a little farther away.

 

Every step counts so instead of parking in front of your destination, find a parking space a few streets away. This will allow you to sneak in more steps in a day even if you are not out to exercise.

 

 

4. Go out for lunch.

 

This doesn’t mean you have to spend extra bucks every lunchtime to eat at fancy restaurants. You can find any place away from your desk and eat your meal, whether in your office’s cafeteria, a friend’s house or a nearby park. The goal is to force yourself to move rather than sit all day at your office table.

 

 

5. Opt for public transit.

 

Taking public buses or trains may sound inconvenient but can end up benefiting you in the long run. One study has shown that commuters who took public transit weighed less and had lower BMIs than those who drove. If your home is a few blocks from the bus stop, it’s an easy way to trick yourself into walking.

 

 

6. Take your dog for a walk.

 

There’s nothing like an exercise company with fur and wagging tail to keep you motivated. Most dogs need to be walked at least once each day so you have the perfect excuse to get out of the house and be active. It’s a great way to keep you and your fur baby happy and healthy.

 

 

7. Play with your children.

 

Many parents delight in playing with children. But aside from the fun and bonding, it also has health benefits. A study in Harvard Medical School has found that a 155-pound adult can burn 149 calories by engaging in moderate play. Meanwhile, a vigorous play can get rid of 186 calories in the same individual.

 

 

8. Sit less, stand more.

 

Sitting for long periods is linked to higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, obesity and back pain. If you have a job where you sit most of the day, use a standing desk high enough for you to work and stand at the same time. 

Standing sheds 88 calories an hour compared to 80 calories for sitting. It can also ease back pain and improve your energy levels throughout the day.

 

 

You don’t necessarily need a gym membership or an exercise machine to beat a sedentary lifestyle. Make these simple tips a consistent part of your day and you are halfway to staying active everyday.