Shape Up For Spring

Sometimes the best exercise intentions get pushed aside by the pressures of a hectic schedule: Lack of time is a commonly cited reason for not exercising. But this spring, you can change that – with a few tips from Medical Advisory Board member Felicia Stoler.

Current recommendations for good health include exercising for 30 minutes at a moderate level a couple of days a week. While this may not be possible for everyone right away, it is possible over time. Here’s how:

• Set your alarm 20 minutes earlier and start your day off with a brisk walk.
• Make exercise a priority by putting it on your calendar like any other appointment or engagement, and schedule other obligations around it.
• Pack a change of clothes, along with comfortable footwear, and go outside during your lunch break or immediately after work. Even if last-minute tasks come up at work, you’ll more likely to make it happen if you have your gear ready.
• Take a stress break at work by walking the stairs or completing a few stretching exercises in your office.
• Take a five minute walk every hour that you are at work – in an eight-hour day, you can accumulate 40 minutes of exercise!
• Get off the bus or the subway a few stops away and walk the rest of the way home – especially if it’s nice outside.
• When you get to the grocery store, park your car at the back of the parking lot and walk the extra distance. While carrying your bags, do some bicep curls!
• Get some fresh air for yourself and your kids by putting them in the stroller or letting them bike next to you while you walk around your neighborhood. This is a great way to get your whole family into a healthy physical fitness routine.
• If the weather is bad, go to a local mall and walk.
• When you’re watching TV, get up and do some ab exercises or arm curls during the commercial breaks. You can do very easily do squats or lunges during commercial breaks!
• Put on music in your house, and dance!