Healthy habits

If you’re not used to exercising and need a starting point or if you simply struggle to find the time, here are a few ways that you can get moving during the day:

At home:

• try pacing or standing while you’re on the phone
• set an alarm to remind you that you’ve been sat down for too long
• get gardening. Digging, mowing and weeding are great ways to get the muscles working
• exercise while watching TV. For some great exercises you can do sat down visit the NHS choices website
• have a spring clean. This will get you lifting, scrubbing and stretching

In the office:

• take the stairs instead of a lift
• take your lunch outside or walk during lunch
• stand up to read at work or use a standing desk
• schedule walking meetings
• set a reminder on your computer to get up and move more

Getting to places:

• park your car further away to make yourself do a short walk
• walk your children to and from school rather than driving
• cycle or walk as part of your journey to work
• walk to the shops instead of driving and when you get there carry a basket rather than push a trolley
• break up long car trips with breaks
• get off the bus a stop earlier so you have to walk a little further
• walk the children to the park and play some games
• stand or walk around while waiting for public transport

There are so many ways to get moving and it does not need to be difficult. You can start by picking a couple of the tips above and gradually work more of these habits into your life.

For more ideas on how to build movement into your life visit the NHS get active your way website.