She Strengthens

Breaking the Sedentary Cycle: Simple Ways to Stay Active at Home

As the winter months approach, it’s easy to get caught up in a sedentary lifestyle. With the pandemic still looming, many of us are spending more time indoors than ever before. But staying active is crucial for both our physical and mental well-being.

The Alarming Truth About Sedentary Behavior

Did you know that Americans spend an average of 13-15 hours per day sitting? This is a far cry from the 3-5 hours of sitting per day that was common just 200 years ago, when most people lived in agricultural communities and physical work was a necessity. The pandemic has only exacerbated this problem, eliminating small physical activities from our daily routines like commutes to work and school.

Schedule Movement into Your Day

One of the easiest ways to stay active at home is to schedule movement into your day. Set a timer on your phone to remind you to get up and stretch every hour. Try simple exercises like jumping jacks, wall sits, or planks during your workday. Even a short morning, lunchtime, or after-work walk can make a big difference. Consider standing while you work, whether that means putting your laptop on a counter or typing at a bookshelf.

Shake Up Your Routine with New Props

If you’re struggling to stay motivated, it might be time to try out some new props. Resistance bands can improve flexibility and joint mobility, while weights can help with strength building. A thick yoga mat can save your knees and muffle noise, and wireless headphones can let you blast music without disturbing others.

Make Exercise Fun Again

The best part about exercising at home is that you can have fun without anyone watching. Try a quick dance workout to get your blood flowing, or try something new like boxing or HIIT. Use what you have to get moving, whether that means running up and down the stairs or jogging in place.

Join a Virtual Fitness Community

If you’re struggling to stay motivated, consider joining a virtual fitness class through your local studio or following fitness YouTubers and Instagram content creators. This can provide accountability and inspiration to keep moving. You can also ask friends for recommendations and save exercise videos to try out later.

Stay Active, Stay Healthy

Staying active is key to maintaining both physical and mental health, especially during these challenging times. By incorporating small amounts of movement into your daily routine, you can make a big difference in your overall well-being. So why not give it a try?