Regular physical activity has been shown to help prevent heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and other chronic conditions. It is important for maintaining good health in all adults and children, regardless of whether their weight is a problem or not. Lifestyle changes do not have to be drastic to be effective. Simple measures applied every day can make a significant difference over time.
Increase whatever physical activity you are currently doing by adding 10 minutes a day, or increase the intensity from low to moderate.
Limit time spent online, watching TV and playing video games to less than two hours total per day.
Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Park at the far end of the parking lot and walk to your destination, rather than parking as close as possible. You can also get off the bus one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way.
Do more household chores (such as dusting, vacuuming or weeding).
Walk or run with the dog and/or the kids.
Use an exercise machine (such as a treadmill or bike) while watching TV.
Take "active" vacations—go hiking or ride bicycles.
Walk to do errands (such as to the grocery store or post office) instead of driving.
Buy a pedometer, which measures how many steps you take each day. Gradually increase your daily number of steps. (Pedometers can be purchased at sporting good stores.)
Don't be embarrassed about exercising!
