Have you been taking part in Incidental Exercise?
Exercise is usually seen as a specific activity designed to tone up bodies and help people control their weight. However, many forms of exercise that are equally beneficial can be done incidentally and in conjunction with your daily routine.
Here are five examples of what can be described as incidental exercises:
Walking
Walking is generally regarded as one of the best exercises and can be easily adopted to other activities. Instead of circling endlessly to park close to your destination, consider parking away from the rest of the cars and traveling the rest of the way by foot. Those who use public transportation should consider walking to the second or third bus or tram stop, or getting off early and walking to your home or office.
Shopping
You don't have to lift weights to exercise your arms and hands. When shopping, plan on carrying instead of wheeling your groceries to the car. In the store, try walking up every aisle, even if you're not looking for something on the shelves.
Hit the stairs
Escalators and elevators may be convenient, but they do nothing for your health. If you have sufficient time and the building is not excessively high, consider walking up the stairs. You can also use the escalator as a staircase and hike to your desired floor.
Squeeze and Lift
Most of us spend too much time waiting in line, so consider using that time to do some leg lifts or isometric exercises. If anybody asks what you are doing, tell them. You might give them some healthy ideas.
Off the couch
You can even combine some exercises with activities normally considered sedate. Pedal an exercise bike or walk on a treadmill while watching television, or get up and walk around during commercials or between programs. Such simple activities as these can have tremendous positive effects on your overall health.
