5 ways to bring activity into our daily lives

How to increase physical activity on a daily basis? Find out 5 ways to get your daily dose of exercise.

Most of us lack exercise, and the condition even has its own medical name: hypokinesia. There is even talk of the three chair generation, adults whose day is divided between the office chair at work, the car seat and the sofa at home. So how can we incorporate physical activity into the daily routine so that it becomes a regular feature rather than an annoying chore? There are several ways!

1. increase NEAT, or spontaneous activity

How about climbing the stairs Instead of using the lift? How about leaving your car in the car park or garage and walking to the shop you will walk? In an office building, you can choose the furthest printer. This daily dose of exercise is the easiest way to increase your step count without planning to go to the gym or running. Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), i.e. spontaneous activity, can have a very positive impact not only on metabolic health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, but also improves mood and well-being.

2. want to mobilise for exercise? Find a companion!

If you find it difficult to mobilise yourself to get out of the house, find someone to accompany you. Together it will be harder for you to cancel a planned walk or trip to the pool. Nurturing social relationships is an essential part of our wellbeing, and in this way two birds can be killed with one stone.

3. try different activities and experiment

Don't have your favourite sport? No problem! Give yourself time to find out which type of sport suits you best. Don't be discouraged if you feel it's not it after all. Not into Zumba? Don't worry, pilates or yoga might suit you better.

4. exercise snack as an interlude during the day

Studies have shown that even a small physical activity of a few minutes makes a big difference: it helps reduce stress on joints and muscles, and is also a reset for the brain - it has a positive effect on concentration. Like snack exercises what do they look like in practice? After an hour at work, get up from your desk and do a few squats. If you're on the phone, instead of sitting, take a walk in the corridor. Climb on your toes and stretch.

5 The power of small habits. Morning start-up, evening stretching

It is best to start with small steps. How about starting your day with gentle gymnastics or taking a quarter of an hour to stretch and breathe calmly before bed? Habits are hard to build, but if you can get through the first stage they will become as normal as brushing your teeth before bed.

The option is to increase a daily dose of exercise There are many. The most important thing is not to give up, even if you don't manage to go out for a walk or a workout one day. Physical activity, adapted to age and ability, is a key element of preventive health care, affecting both body and psyche. Movement and maintaining a healthy body weight are the pillars of caring for an efficient musculoskeletal system, a lower risk of metabolic diseases and cardiovascular problems.

Would you like to find out what physical activity would be right for you? Come along for a consultation with our physiotherapists.