Easy Movement Tips to Keep You Active and Leading a Less Sedentary Life!

Good morning, Movers & Shakers! We know from personal experience that having sedentary aspects to your lifestyle can be hard to avoid. It’s increasingly common in today's world, with many of us spending hours sitting at desks, on couches, or in traffic. This lack of activity isn't just about being stationary; it's about the minimal energy we expend daily, which can contribute to various chronic health issues. Problems associated with prolonged sitting include strain on the head, neck, shoulders, back, hips, glutes, legs, and even the bones. But it’s not all doom and gloom! The upside is there are many little changes we can implement that all add up and help improve overall wellbeing. 

The truth is, sitting isn't inherently bad; the real issue lies in our lack of movement. To counteract the effects of a sedentary lifestyle, it's vital to integrate more activity into our routines. Here are some practical tips to help you get moving and lead a healthier life:

1. Take Regular Breaks: Every hour, make it a point to stand up and stretch or take a brief walk. This could be around your office or home. These short breaks are not just good for your body, but they also boost mental clarity and productivity.
2. Utilise Your Commute: If possible, walk or bike to work. This not only helps increase your daily activity but also contributes to your cardiovascular health and reduces carbon emissions.
3. Climb the Corporate… Stairs: Opt for the stairs instead of elevators. Stair climbing burns more calories per minute than jogging and significantly boosts your heart rate, making it a fantastic mini-workout.
4. Scheduled Walks: Plan walks during lunch breaks or set specific times daily for a walk. This helps establish a routine, making it easier to stick to your goals. If you work from home, a walk around the neighbourhood can be a perfect break in your day.
5. Team up: Involve friends or colleagues in your activities. Organising group walks or fitness activities can make exercising more enjoyable and motivate you to be consistent.
6. Start Small: If you're new to regular physical activity, start with short, 10-minute walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity. This gradual increase helps build endurance and reduces the risk of injury.
7. Post-Meal Activity: We don’t mean upload a photo of your breakfast! A walk after meals can aid digestion and overall cardiovascular health. Keep a pair of walking shoes handy and take a quick stroll after eating. This not only helps with digestion but also keeps you from falling into a post-meal slump.
8. Set Incremental Goals: Increase your walking time by five minutes each week, or increase the pace. Setting small, achievable goals can help you build confidence and momentum.

Incorporating these easy movement tips into your daily life can significantly impact your health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Remember, the key to success is consistency. So, lace up your shoes, get moving, and turn these simple activities into lifelong habits to maintain a vibrant, healthy life - You can do it!