Get Moving!

We all know that exercise is important for our physical health. But we often forget the emotional and mental benefits that exercise also offers. As we get our heart rates up, the endorphins that are released can help clear our minds and boost our moods. And, when you burn calories while performing daily tasks, you will feel like you've accomplished a lot more at the end of the day.

There are so many different ways to get moving and get our heart rates up. However, most people use the excuse that there is never enough time to exercise. Between house and yard work, kids, jobs, and school, there is always something taking up our time, making us say, "I can't." There is a quote from John Wooden that says, "Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." Here are ways to get our muscles working and get our heart rates going while taking care of every day duties.

When you are at work, make it a point to take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Find ways around the house to burn a few extra calories. If you are taking laundry up/down to the laundry room, separate your clothes into piles and take a trip up/down the stairs for each pile. This might seem really cumbersome, but trust me, you'll feel your legs burning in no time.

Wash your windows. Hand washing your windows is a great workout for your arms. If you don't believe me, you haven't tried it lately. Grab your favorite glass cleaner, paper towels, a cloth, or a squeegee and get to work. This workout is also affective while washing mirrors (especially when you're trying to scrub off those stubborn hairspray spots!!).

You will almost always break a sweat while mopping your kitchen floor, even if your floor area isn't that big. Whether you are hand washing and scrubbing, or using a mop, you will absolutely feel your muscles the next day.

Everyone needs to visit the grocery store at some point during the week. When you go, make it a point to park in the far end of the parking lot and walk the distance to the store's entrance. If you're in a hurry, speed up your walk!

Putting your groceries away can also provide some calorie-burning opportunities. As you put away your canned goods, do some weight-lifting reps. Fit in 10 reps with every two cans you are placing in the cupboard. Your family members might laugh, but you'll be the one laughing when your arm muscles are toned.

Pulling weeds will usually wake up any muscles you haven't used for a while. And, depending on the time of day you choose to tackle this job, you can work up a good enough sweat to maybe help soften the soil (ok, that's gross, but if you're a sweater, it's true!).

Does the dog need to be walked? Be the one to volunteer for the job. It's a great time to get in an extra 20- to 30-minute walk. Your dog won't be the only one receiving the benefits.

When your kids are looking for something to do, especially during the long summer days, pull out your bikes and go on a family bike ride. It doesn't have to be very long, but it can be memorable. It's great when you can combine quality family time with burning calories. That's extra rewarding!

If you are taking kids (or siblings) to soccer practice, walk some laps around the field. It will make practice time go by faster and you will feel like you've accomplished something during the hour.

In a busy world where every minute is precious, make every minute count. There are usually ways in those pesky daily tasks to burn extra calories. When you get moving, you will benefit physically, mentally, and emotionally. You will feel like you are better able to tackle the every day tasks. And when you are tired at the end of the day, you can sleep well knowing that you have done something good ~ for you!

Get Moving