Exercise is a central component to a medical weight loss plan, or simply to stay healthy and ward off age-related chronic diseases. But if you’re like a lot of people, you simply can’t find the time to hit the gym. First of all, that’s very common these days, so don’t feel too bad about it. Next, it’s time to come up with creative solutions to this problem… And we might have one for you.
If you work in an office setting, you probably already know that the work day leaves you feeling sluggish and tired. Plus, sitting at a desk all day has been linked to poor cardiovascular health over time. Our solution can help you burn calories through exercise and support a medical weight loss plan (if you’re following one), but it’s also good for pretty much everyone’s health!
We call it micro-walks, and it’s what it sounds like. Rather than scheduling one long walk each day, you set a timer and get up for short bursts of activity. Hike up and down the stairs of your building for five minutes each hour, or go for a brisk, fifteen-minute walk around the block on your lunch break.
Always remember that any exercise is better than none. But micro-walks work in another way. They get your heart rate up at intervals throughout the day, helping you to burn calories in bursts all day. And it’s usually very effective at keeping energy levels up too.
The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of walking each day, to ward off heart disease. And walking can have other benefits, such as boosting your mood and preventing arthritis. You might even find that your quick jaunts work to improve focus and creativity, and therefore boost your work productivity!
Just remember to bring appropriate footwear to the office with you, or simply buy an extra pair of sneakers and stash them in a file cabinet. And if you have any other questions about exercise or your medical weight loss plan, just give us a call to schedule an appointment.
