by Kat Stovall

Created on: January 18, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

With our increase in national obesity rate climbing ever higher up goes the mortality rate of heart, diabetes, and cancer rates. These all move up for a reason: They are all related. So what can we do to get more exercise despite our busy and hectic day?

1. Go the extra step. Instead of spending 15 minutes trying to parallel park right in front of the place you are going try purposely finding a parking spot farther away. You can also try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, making a couple of extra laps around the office during slower times, or walk to a nearby cafe for a healthy lunch.

2. Jog the Dog. According to the APPMA (American Pet Product Manufacturers Association) 43.5 million homes in America have a dog. Fido can be one of your best peices of work out equipment. He will gladly benefit from a walk or even better a job around the block.

3. Excesses while you sit. Got a job where you sit alot or that dreaded drive there? Try leg lifts at the desk, Gluttal (butt) squeeze while in your chair or your car, shoulder raises can ease the tension, toe lifts can help keep frontal leg muscles in shape, Squeeze and release various muscles, or wear small ankle weights under slacks to help work out while making your many laps through the work place.

4. Research and Will Power. There are many effective workouts that can be done successfully in 15 minutes in the comfort of your home. Do your own research, talk to a health professional, and find what workout works best for you. Then stick to it. You can work out during t.v. time and still not miss your show, you could meet a friend for a brisk walk instead of coffee, or just schedule it in. 80% of Americans agree that if they schedule something in their appointment book they feel more obligated to fulfill that appointment, even if it is with their selves.

5. Workout while you clean. Most of us have to clean are own houses and apartments. The luxury of a maid has yet to really work itself into the middle class society. So take this time to add a little cardio to your chores. After mopping the floor to get a nice dry shine place a towel on the floor and scoot it around the room with your feet, wear those ankle weights, move to some music (dancing is great cardio), while vacuuming put a little extra weight on the machine itself, do tip toe exorcises and stretch those hamstrings while you dust higher shelves, step side to side while you are doing the dishes at a regular or faster pace, and use laundry baskets to do arm lifts.

6. Kiddie Weights. Small children our also a great exercise tool. You can use a toddler to do leg lifts, arm lifts, and get lots of giggles. Have your child set on your feet during sit-ups or crunches and do funny faces each time you raise up. If you are brave have one sit on your back while doing push-ups. Play a game, dance to their favorite movie tunes, or just go for a walk. By doing this you spend quality time with your children, instill good habits in them, and keep yourself healthy.

Good Luck

Learn more about this author, Kat Stovall.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.