Everyday Weight Loss: Small Steps to Get You Going

If you’re anything like me, your workout plan goes down a pretty familiar path.  I come up with a plan, tell myself all the reasons I’m going to stick to it this time, find motivation to really do it… and then real life gets in the way.

With a little ingenuity, there are some great steps that will ultimately make a big difference.  Exercising doesn’t have to be a dedicated moment laced with running shoes and sweatpants; there are many tricks to working in a workout throughout the day. 

1. Stand up and walk around:  I’ve observed my co-workers, and myself, and noticed that a lot of us tend to hunch over the keyboard and type away, never really taking a moment to get up, stretch our legs, and walk around.  Most people get two 15 minute breaks during the day – spread this time out and take a 3 to 4 minute walk every hour.  The time away from the computer is good for your heart – and might be just what you need to get your creative juices flowing.
2. Talk to your co-workers face-to-face instead of calling or emailing:  It just seems so easy to pick up the handset or shoot off an email, but getting up and walking over to a co-workers desk or office has proven to not only be a great little excuse for a bit of exercise and stretching, but some of the best working relationships I have started from this push to be active.
3. Park Further:  Stop scouring the parking lot for the space closest to the door!  Make a conscious effort to park further away.  This might mean you need to carry an umbrella in your car on some days, but the extra minute it might take to walk from your car is a small way to be a bit more active.

For those of you, like me, who put off making the bigger efforts, these small steps could just be the motivation we need to really start making a difference!   Do you have any other simple ideas on how to be active during the day, while at work, school, or wherever else your day may lead?  Feel free to share your ideas in the comments.
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