Wellness
4 Ways to Get Better Results Outside the Gym

By Tanja Ward, Certified Health Coach

Been going to the gym, exercise class or walking the park to get your daily workout in?  Well, good for you! But, if you're not seeing the changes you want, take a look at your daily patterns and try these 4 ways to get better results outside the gym:

1. Sit less stand more

when you're sending e-mails, texting or on the phone, or going through mail.  Move your laptop to a counter where you can work standing. (I'm standing now!)  Did you know you burn 33 percent more calories standing than sitting?  I heard of one iMOM who dropped an easy couple of pounds after she put her computer monitor, her mouse and her keyboard on boxes, and stood for most of her workday.

2. Take 1-2 minute breaks

from your desk every 30 minutes and walk around, march in place or do a few simple stretches.

3. Walk and talk, step and climb.

Whether you are at home or in the office, go in person to ask your neighbor a question. Have a walking meeting rather than a conference call.  If you're home has stairs, incorporate some extra climbing into your day.  See if you can take the stairs two, or even three, at a time.

4. Eat more color and drink less color.

Fortunately you don't have to know all the nutrients in the various fruits and vegetables.  You'll get it right if you simply have a colorful variety on your plate (e.g. sweet potato, red chard, spaghetti squash, tomato sauce, etc.). Then when it comes to the accompanying beverage stay clear. Drink more water than coffee, soda, juice or tea to stay hydrated and save on calories.

© 2011, Tanja Ward. All rights reserved. Originally published at The Lifetime Lifestyle Blog.

RECENT ARTICLES