by Cindy Shanks

Created on: June 03, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

The very word "exercise" conjures up images of hard work. People think of it as a chore, and something they don't want to do, though it doesn't have to be like that. There are some simple ways I've found that can add exercise to your day, quite painlessly, whether it is at home, work or for leisure.

At Home

For a stay at home parent, time is precious. Looking after children is rewarding but exhausting. With young children there are many things you can do to be active. Turn off the television and be as energetic as you can with them. Listen to some fun music and dance for a few minutes. Take turns, dance together. Tots will love dancing and moving to music. Once they have had enough of dancing then take them outside in your garden or the local park. Play throw and catch or any other game with them. All these activities will help you to lose weight. You will be having fun together and burning off the calories as well.

When it comes to housework; hoovering, ironing, and cleaning are all methods of exercise. Running up and down the stairs to change the beds, fetch the laundry, clean the bathroom all add up during the day.

At Work

At work, using the steps, getting off one or two bus stops earlier will add a few extra minutes of walking. If you're a driver then instead of rushing to be nearest to the door then be as far away as possible so you are accumulating extra minutes of exercise. Walk up two or three flights of stairs instead of going in the elevator. You might even be able to increase your flights of stairs when you become fitter. Delegate yourself for the jobs that involve walking from one place to another. At lunch time have a walk outside for a few minutes. Find a work colleague who might like to join you and you can help each other become fitter.

Leisure

Choose leisure activities that make you exercise. Instead of always choosing the cinema why not decide to go bowling with your family once or twice a month. For families with teenagers then ice-skating might also be another option. Swimming is excellent exercise for everyone. Having leisure activities like swimming and skating will help you to bond as a family as you talk and share your day. Walking together and having a picnic or stopping off somewhere can also be good fun.

Generally the most important thing is to start small. The mistake people often make is trying to do too much too soon. Exercise then becomes over-facing and you feel disheartened. If motivation or weight-loss is what you need then find supportive friends.. Have a sponsored weight-loss or exercise goal for charity. Treat yourself. When you have lost weight or exercised for a couple of months then treat yourself to a concert, a manicure or whatever you happen to like doing. If you are determined you will find a way and reap the rewards of feeling fitter and happier.

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