Physical activity doesn't have to be a chore. You can “sneak” it into your day, a few minutes at a time. To get a total of at least 30 minutes of activity most days, try making these small changes in your daily routine:
Physical activity can be fun. Do things you enjoy, like dancing, roller skating, or playing sports. If you can, be active with a friend or a group—that way, you can cheer each other on, have company while you exercise, and feel safer outdoors. There are lots of ways to be active that are free or low-cost. You can:
Don’t have time to exercise? There are things you can do around the house, like getting up and stretching during TV commercials, or lifting weights (you can even use two soup cans as hand weights). Doing housework and working in the yard are good ways to be active. And you can use time with your kids to be active—take them for a bike ride, jump double-dutch, toss a softball, play tag, or do jumping jacks. It’s good exercise for them too!
TIP: If you are over 50 or have chronic health problems, talk to your health care provider before starting a vigorous activity program.