Nicole shares three tips to help you move more without breaking a sweat!
The word exercise can sometimes be intimidating! (Please tell me I’m not alone in this). This is especially true if it’s something you’ve never really incorporated into your lifestyle.
First, where would I find the time? And second, where would I even begin? There are more apps, blogs, websites, and YouTube channels on the subject, enough to overwhelm anyone.
I used to think exercise only meant running a few miles or, worse, burpees! I thought of it similarly to a kid being forced to eat vegetables; it’s probably good for you if it doesn’t taste good or isn’t any fun. And while running and burpees are great if that’s what you choose to do, if you prefer not to do it, chances are you won’t stick to it!
The most important thing is THAT you move, not necessarily HOW you move! In the fitness and health world, this concept is known as NEAT – Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis.
More and more studies have shown that inactivity is “the new smoking.”
Research has found that too much sitting has been linked to higher risks for various health problems, particularly cardiovascular disease.
Here’s what happens when you spend too much time sitting: blood flow slows down, allowing fatty acids to build up in the blood vessels, leading to heart disease.
Ain’t nobody got time for that!
The most important thing is THAT you move, not necessarily HOW you move!
My personal goal is to be upright as long as I’m up-right!
It looks different in my 40s than in my 20s, when my goal was to fit into that cute outfit or bathing suit for the summer.
Now, I simply just want to enjoy a quality life and independence for as long as I’m on this side of eternity. I have a full life, as I’m sure some can relate, so I’m all about efficiency. I need things to be quality but also quick, simple, and easy.
Does anyone remember Sandra Lee? She hosted a tv show in the early 2000’s called “Semi-Homemade.” She would take something store-bought and then dress it up, adding her own special touches. That’s me!!
Why would I take so much time and energy to make it from scratch if someone has already done the heavy lifting for me? My philosophy is if it comes from my home, it’s homemade, whether it came from a package or a box (laughing at myself).
Effort always counts!
So, here are three simple ways I manage to incorporate more movement into my every day, and you can as well. A workout without the work, if you will…
1. Park farther away from the door
I take these opportunities to get in some extra steps. Sometimes I feel as if I am a professional “errand runner!” I have stops to make on my way to making stops. Not only does parking farther away from the door get your heart rate up a little, you never have to look for a parking space. The ones farthest away are almost always available. Win-Win!
2. Make use of your environment
Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or bike to work instead of driving, or take a walk during your lunch break. Get creative! You don’t need a gym membership to stay active. When was the last time you skipped? I dare you to try it without smiling! Practically impossible!
3. Make it a game
I like to see how many squats, lunges, or sit-ups I can do during a commercial. Or while waiting for the coffee to brew, the water to boil, or the frozen dinner in the microwave to ding. Impromptu dance breaks are a must as well. If you enjoy what you’re doing, you will be more successful in making it a habit and sticking to it.
Nicole (Nikki) has been in full-time ministry for over 18 years. She is a certified Revelation Wellness Instructor (Platoon 29) and President of a nonprofit, Sharing Well. She and her husband, Steven, pastor Bridge City Church in Stockbridge, GA. Together they have three children and five grandchildren. She considers them her most treasured gifts. Nikki believes that she was designed to help others to live healed and whole and resolves to spend the rest of her life “making other people feel less broken!”
Everything You Need to Know
The N.E.A.T. 101 Guide will teach you how to get moving throughout the day, every day. Because every movement matters for your health and wholeness.
Ready to get started?
