Move More During the Holidays: Tips to be active when time is tight

When you’re rushing between errands, social events, work and family functions, you may think you don’t have time to exercise.  It’s just as important to exercise during busy times, so try to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity each week.  Remember that physical activity can be a great stress reliever.  When you need a break from the hectic holidays, move more and give yourself the gift of health.

Try these tips to increase your physical activity while still keeping your schedule on time.

• Up the intensity.   The Centers for Disease Control recommend 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity each week, but 75 minutes of intense activity.  When you’re short on time, strap on the tennis shoes and take a run around the block.
  
  
• Add more activity to your routine. 
  
  
• Take the stairs at home, work, the mall, etc.
  
  
• Park further away from the front door when you’re running errands
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• Stand up while you talk on the phone.  Better yet – do lunges, arm curls, squats . . .
  
  
• Invite others.  Make a group walk part of your holiday tradition.
  
  
• Give activity.  Consider gifts that include activity for you and the recipient.
  
  
• Give your partner a voucher for dance lessons
  
  
• Treat your family to your favorite sport.  Give your nephew swimming lessons, take your niece to the batting cages, treat your brother with a promise of spring-time golf – you carry the clubs. 

Remember that some activity is always better than none.  So when time is tight and you can’t complete your normal routine, find ways to sneak activity in each day.  Invest in your health now and you won’t need all those New Year’s Resolutions.

Happy Holidays!