Sometimes getting motivated to hit the gym is hard because it just isn’t fun, but with the obesity epidemic in America, being active is more important than ever. Adult obesity rates increased in 16 states in the past year and did not decline in any state, according to the latest “F as in Fat” report released this month by the Trust for America’s Health. To fight this epidemic, take advantage of fun things you can do to stay active and healthy.
Shop (or window shop)
I’m not talking about online shopping. Walking around the mall is a great way to burn calories without even realizing it. Just think of the exercise you would get walking up and down Michigan Avenue, or the eight-story Water Tower Place in Chicago! Also take advantage of walking during your lunch break or walk your dog.
1 hour of walking at 3 mph= 165 calories burned
Clean Your Room
Not only will your mom stop nagging you about cleaning, you’re going to burn more calories dusting and vacuuming than you will sitting at your computer.
30 minutes of cleaning=60 calories burned
Play a Sport
Grab some friends and shoot some hoops, play tennis or even a round of Frisbee golf. Last fall, my family put together a flag football game. I had so much fun attempting to catch a football that I didn’t even notice all the running I was doing.
1 hour of flag football=300 calories burned
Ride your Bike
A leisurely bike ride through a scenic forest preserve hardly feels like exercise. Do some research, find trails close to where you live and dust off your bike. This is also a great date idea, or something you can do with your family.
1 hour of biking at 10-12 mph=300 calories burned
Happy burning!