In this Wellbeing Wednesday two-minute update, we look at the benefits of exercising and why it could be easier than you think to get moving again.
We’ve been through some historically uncertain times this year.
But with the recent announcements around the highly promising vaccines to combat Covid-19, brighter times have appeared on the global horizon.
During this period of uncertainty, one thing has become crystal clear, and that’s the importance of exercising regularly for your mind and body.
According to the NHS, the benefits include:
Reducing stress levels
Strengthening your immunity
Maintaining a steady weight
Improving your memory and brain functioning
Helping you to sleep better
Increasing feel-good endorphins to boost your mood
Yes, it seems that exercise is one of those things that we all know is good for us, but not all of us do it.
So, with that in mind, we jumped on the internet to find six easy ways to get moving.
- Housework Out – Did you know that doing the domestic chores for 30 minutes can burn up to 220 calories on average. Time to get the mop out?
- Working Out at the Car Wash – Getting your vehicle shiny and clean isn’t just easy on the eye, it’s helpful to the waistline, because on average washing your car can burn around 314 calories an hour.
- Keep on Track – Keeping tabs on how much you’ve exercised can be hugely motivating. And it’s never been easier to chart the number of steps you’ve taken in a day, or the calories you’ve burned, thanks to smartphones and fitness trackers.
- Find a Fitness Friend – Although we’re all still being encouraged to socially distance, nothing is stopping you calling a friend and suggesting doing three 30-minute exercise sessions a week. You don’t have to do these together, but it keeps you motivated knowing you are accountable to someone and you spur each other on.
- Small Things Add Up – Next time you are waiting for the kettle to boil, do some stretches. Or park a little further away on the school run. A series of small steps in the right direction can put you on the path to feeling much fitter.
- Now We’re Walking – The most straightforward way to exercise is a low impact, brisk walk. It provides a change of scenery, some fresh air, and a new stimulus for the brain.
Before embarking on any new exercise plan, consult your doctor or a fitness professional.
And if you are thinking of moving home, consult us for honest, expert, and friendly advice.
At IMS our passion is to help people across Oxfordshire get moving. And for us to do that, we need to stay fighting fit, so we’ll be trying out the above ideas.
What’s your best exercise tip?
Thanks for reading.
