Easy Ways to Integrate Exercising Into Your Daily Life

senior couple walking

Do your New Year resolutions include getting healthier? Perhaps you want to exercise more, but can’t seem to get motivated. Or maybe it is difficult for you to find the 30-60 minutes in the day you need to work out. There are many different ways to stay fit that don’t involve spending hours in the gym! Integrate these habits into your daily life as an easy way to stay healthy

Choose to Walk

two men walking

When you have to run errands, choose to walk instead of drive. If the store is only a few blocks away, why drive when you can incorporate a bit more exercise into your day? The average adult should try to take 10,000 steps a day. Walking 8 blocks (about a mile) is 2,000 steps. Each time you choose to walk somewhere over driving you will get closer to this goal! Walking may be simple, but it is a great way for seniors to stay mobile and independent

Park Farther Away

parking lot

If you do choose to drive, park in the furthest spot away from the door. It may seem like it’s not worth the extra hassle for a few extra steps, but they add up fast! Every effort you make to increase your physical activity benefits your health. Walking helps seniors take aging in stride. Just a little bit everyday can make a profound difference. 

Take the Stairs

walking up stairs

Always try to take the stairs instead of the elevator. Stair climbing is a great option as a low-impact workout. Even if you just go up a flight or two, you are getting your heart pumping. Increasing your heart rate for even just short period of time will help keep you healthy. If you haven’t taken the stairs in a while, build up your endurance gradually and become capable of much more. 

Use Commercial Time

squat silhouette

While watching TV, use the commercial time to do some simple exercising. Workouts like planks, squats, sit-ups, and push-ups are moves that require no equipment and can be done right in front of your TV. Spend the commercial break toning your body. This is a great way to fit in exercise when you don’t have much extra time in your day. 

Do Your Own Yard Work

senior yard work

If you do your own yardwork, you may have not counted it as a workout before. Raking leaves, mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, and gardening is exercise! Yardwork works all your major muscle groups to give you a nice, full-body workout. Remember to stay safe by warming up your muscles before you start working. Take a walk around your yard or down the block and do some light stretching for your lower back and hamstrings. As gardening season approaches, save money and get the health benefits that come along with working outside!

Get a Dog

senior walking dog

A big benefit of having a dog is that it encourages exercise. As a dog owner you can’t get away with sitting on the couch all day. You will have to get out and walk your new best friend! You will have to clean up after your dog and play with it too. All of these actions increase your movement throughout the day. Dog are great companions for seniors, especially if you live alone. Dog owners find that having a furry friend boosts happiness and personal satisfaction. 

Stay Safe and Healthy

PAX in hand

Don’t let a fear of falling hold you back from getting the exercise your body needs! Any physical activity only increases your strength and balance. No matter what activity you choose, don’t forget to bring your mobile fall detection medical alert. Here at Alert1, we want you to stay safe while you incorporate exercise into your daily life. Our PAX mobile fall detection can keep you safe while you are on the go. In the unfortunate event of an injury, the mobile fall detection will sense your fall and send you the help you need. Get the peace of mind you deserve to exercise the way you want. 

Simple Ways to Be the Best You

Regular exercise, even as simple as walking, can help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. Staying active can help you manage your arthritis and decrease your risk for disability. Incorporating small amounts of movement into your daily routine can have a big impact on your health if you keep at it. Start small and keep working towards bigger goals. Every time you get your heartrate up your body is reaping the benefits.