Give Me Five!

The Give-Me-Five Monday meme, graciously hosted by Becca, is designed to share fun information in a short list. This week's topic was suggested by Joyce at Mom's Musings.

Give Me Five ways to fit exercise into your life.

Ah! I think this is a topic that busy people everywhere can relate to. According to a US Government study, 60% of Americans don't get enough exercise and 25% aren't active at all. We all know that exercise can improve our health, but fitting it into a busy, hectic schedule can sometimes be daunting. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Park as far away from the building/store as you can. The extra steps won't take long, and the walking will benefit you. If your building has an elevator, take the stairs instead.

2. Try Jazzercise. You can participate at your level, and it's fun! If that's not for you, try karate or tae kwon do. I've done both of these, and when I was participating, I was at my best fitness level ever.

3. Rent exercise DVD's from your local video store or get them free at the library. That way you can use them in the comfort of your own home on your own time schedule. You can also rent them to try them out before you buy them to see if the workout fits your style and needs.

4. If waking up earlier in the morning isn't your idea of fitting in exercise, try taking ten-to fifteen minutes of your lunch break to take a walk. You could also try working in those few minutes of walking right before you go home. The trick is to make it part of your normal routine.

5. If you are like me, you won't exercise at home. I have to actually go somewhere to do the exercise. Joining a health club can be expensive, but the YMCA is an affordable alternative. They have memberships that are significantly less money than the pricey health clubs, and they offer all the latest equipment (sometimes it's even better than what they have at the health club) as well as group classes, personal fitness experts, and free kid-watch. They also usually have a swimming pool. There are membership options for single parent households, individuals, and families, and they offer discounts through certain employers as well as "scholarships" for people who simply can't afford the membership fee. I love my local Y!

This web site has further tips for making exercise part of your daily routine. And won't you join us at Becca's Buzz for the Give-Me-Five Monday meme?