7 Tips To Fit More Physical Activity Into Your Routine

Are You Ready To Get Moving Again?

Did you know that 80 percent of the U.S. population falls short of the Physical Activity Guidelines recommended by the Department of Health and Human Services? Millions of Americans are risking serious health consequences simply because they do too much sitting and not enough moving around.

That information may not come as a surprise to you, especially if you’re one of the 80 percent. What may surprise you, though, is how quickly and effortlessly you can increase your daily exercise level. Here are seven simple suggestions from our physical therapist for getting more exercise in your life.

1. Ride your bike.

Maybe it’s time you remembered how to ride a bicycle if that journey to the neighborhood store takes too long on foot.

Cycling works different muscles than walking, so it’s a great way to supplement walking when you need to go a bit farther and faster. It also gives you good cardiovascular exercise.

2. Get your workout in while watching TV.

There’s nothing wrong with spending some quality time viewing your favorite television episodes or movies, but you don’t have to do so while sprawled on your couch.

Consider investing in a stationary bike or treadmill to utilize while catching up on your favorite shows. You’ll have just as much fun, but instead of sleeping in, you’ll be working out.

3. Take your dog for a walk.

Have you ever marveled at the sheer energy and endurance displayed by your dog? Dogs love to walk, run, play catch and explore.

Join in these activities, and you’ll find that your dog gives you one heck of a workout.

4. Start doing yoga!

Running or leaping around at a fast pace isn’t necessarily the best method to stay in shape. Yoga relieves stress, stretches muscles, increases range of motion, and aids with breathing control, all of which are beneficial to the body and mind.

Yoga classes provide both structured learning and a supportive social environment.

5. Opt for a standing desk.

Standing desks have become extremely popular in offices, and with good cause.

Standing instead of sitting at your desk can help you lose weight, control blood sugar levels after meals, relieve back pain, improve your mood and energy, lower your risk of heart disease, and add years to your life expectancy. You may even discover that you are able to complete more work!

6. Try out a new sport.

It doesn’t have to be a chore to get that extra activity; it might just as easily take the form of fresh fun.

Have you ever considered playing tennis, golf, surfing, swimming, running, or a team sport like soccer or softball? These activities provide a variety of physical benefits while also getting you up and moving.

7. Walk instead of drive.

Even for a quick walk to the mailbox or the corner store, many people reflexively jump into their cars. What if you spent a few extra minutes walking instead of driving each day?

Walking boosts circulation, exercises your legs and feet, helps to shed excess pounds, keeps your joints limber, and relieves stress.

Looking for more tips? Athletic training could help!

The majority of people seek physical care after an injury. You’re in excruciating pain, desperate for relief and rest, and battling to find the motivation to keep going — of course, you’re looking for a way out of your discomfort! Physical therapy can really help you.

Physical therapists are trained to assist you in regaining the same degree of strength (if not more!) than before your accident. They are dedicated to helping you achieve your maximum potential, whatever it may be.

You can learn about the benefits of sports training with the help of our physical therapists. They include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Overcoming injuries. Physical therapy treatments are one of the most effective ways to recover from an injury and obtain pain relief. Each treatment is tailored to the individual’s demands and the severity of their ailment, and includes workouts and strength-building activities that are particular to their recovery.
• Refocusing strengths. A physical therapist can assist you in focusing on areas of strength that you may not have previously considered. Many bodily parts interact with one another, and strengthening one can aid the function of another. Rather than leaping right into a new sport, improve your muscle strength and range of motion first to teach your body to respond to the new sort of stimulation.
• Developing healthy habits. A physical therapist can assist you with both physical and general wellness goals. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a strong focus on hydration, for example, are all important factors in enhancing your physical fitness. When it comes to improving strength and muscular functionality, a physical therapist is an excellent resource to have because they can assist you in all facets of your health and fitness.

Set up an appointment with us today

Are there activities on this list that you’d love to try — if only your body would let you? Physical therapy could get you back in shape to get into better shape.

Ask our physical therapist for a one-to-one consultation! Contact Lake County Physical Therapy today for more information!

Written By

Zenobia Tantra

PT, DPT, CAPP-PF, CCI, CFeMT

Zenobia is one of the founding members of the company. She specializes in Pelvic Floor Rehab and is one of the few CAPP certified pelvic floor therapists in the country.