by Z.Mahomed

Created on: September 03, 2007   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Whether you're a corporate sitting behind a desk all day, a student working your way through school, a mom with a full schedule, or a construction worker, you're busy and Exercise is likely to be at the bottom of your list of things to do.

What if you could make everyday activities count as exercise? The most comprehensive fitness plan would include tasks that you are already doing! Use the ten steps below to see just how easily you can do this:

1. It's all in the mind. Still here? That's a good sign! You're already on your way!

2.Stretch the tiredness away with a few Pilate's or yoga-inspired moves on getting out of bed. If Yoga isn't really your thing, jog on the spot for a couple of minutes and get that metabolism cranked up.

3.Instead of making a bee-line for the closest parking space at work or at the shops, park further away and walk while you rehearse your pitch or recall your shopping list. Want to feel the difference in your muscles? Take it up a notch and make it a brisk walk for best results!

4.Spend a substantial amount of time in front of the computer or TV screen? Or both? Get up at regular intervals and stretch or shake it! Yes, exercise can be fun and easy too!

5.Take the stairs. Escape the stifling elevator every once in a while and shape up your buttocks and thighs by taking the stairs. A couple of flights of stairs will increase your heart rate as well.

6.Simple exercises such as squats and lunges can be done in the shower or while you're on the phone, at the office or at home.
PS-You may as well put the time that you're put on hold to good use!

7.Deep Breathing exercises are effortless and can also be done at any time. According to the Centre on Aging Studies Without Walls, breathing exercises will deepen breathing and increase energy, while decreasing tension. These exercises provide stress-relief as well, so take a deep breath and relax! It doesn't get easier than that, does it?

8.Doing chores around the house is another great form of daily exercise, and your work gets done at the same time. Gardening, mowing the lawn (with a manual mower), and vacuuming are basic examples of moderate exercise.

9.Don't do drive-ins! Walk to get your fast food, walk to the ATM, walk, walk, and walk!

10.Carry your groceries in a basket while you shop, and in a shopping bag to the car, instead of using a trolley. This provides a good workout for your arms and shoulders.

Still skeptical? I have incorporated the above together with plenty of water daily, and am well on my way to a great body. I even feel healthier! Opportunities to get fit are all around us. Lastly: Think physical activity rather than exercise!

Learn more about this author, Z.Mahomed.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.