10 Easy Ways to Be More Active on This ‘World Physical Activity Day’

It’s World Physical Activity Day – a great reminder that there really is nothing quite like regular activity when it comes to both individual and population health.

Among other benefits, physical activity helps prevent many serious diseases – from stroke to diabetes to cancer – and also improves quality of life and boosts mental mood.

And it doesn’t really take much activity to get such broad benefits. Most come with thirty minutes of brisk activity five days a week. And while more activity is even better, any amount is better than none.

The important thing is to make activity a regular part of your days. Try to fit it in however you can. One longer 30-minute bike ride, or a few 10-minute brisk walks. When it comes to your health, it’s all pretty much the same.

So, for 2018’s World Physical Activity Day, here are ten easy ways to add some extra movement to your day. Keep safety in mind, but see how many you can fit in.

1 – Stand when you watch TV tonight.

2 – Walk or ride your bike for some nearby errands, rather than drive.  
3 – Get off the bus or metro two stops early and walk the rest of the way. 
4 – Take a new movement or exercise class – and grab a friend or family member to go with you. 
5 – Pick the parking spot that’s farthest away rather than closest. 
6 – Download a good exercise app – like the NY Time’s Scientific 7-Minute Workout – and give it a whirl. 
7 – Go for a walk with some co-workers at lunch. 
8 – Take the stairs more than the elevator. 
9 – Get up from your desk once or twice an hour and move around for 2 to 3 minutes.
10 – Stand at the counter when you meet friends for coffee or a snack after work.

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