Z. Johnson
It’s 2023 and this year we are all about keeping things effective and sustainable. Back in the days, people didn’t have to juggle between 2 jobs, raising a family, starting a side hustle and probably trying to upgrade their education. However, the reality these days is different. Living a life with all these aspects in between has become the norm. So, if you are a busy professional who is just trying to figure things out while still aiming to maintain a healthy lifestyle, you are not alone. This year, we are not letting the economy, busy lives, crazy climate change and other factors affect our health and movement goals. We are simplifying everything so that it can become sustainable for you and even for your family. So, let’s look at some easy ways to add more movement in 2023.
First things first… get rid of limitations
If you thought that in order to get some movement in your day requires you to spend expensive memberships, break the bank with costly equipment or that it will require hours from your precious time, think again. It’s time to get rid of all those limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. Life is more challenging and crazy these days, yes, but that’s not an excuse to just sit back and settle for a sedentary life. Oh no, my friend! You want to stay active and busy as much as you can, because, even when it’s good to sit back and relax sometimes, there is no lie that an active life has so many health benefits beyond weight control.
As a matter of fact, contrary to popular belief, getting fit and healthy does not require you to complicate your life. It’s easier than you think. You can tweak some daily activities to add more movement. You can stay active on a budget. As well, you can make good use of your time with little to no equipment. Here are some of my favorite easy ways to add more movement in 2023.
How these easy ways to add more movement will change your life
Embrace low-impact exercises
In my previous blog about 20 ways to stay in shape when you have limited time for exercise, I cover some important hacks. One of the things I recommend on there is how to take advantage of HIIT exercises, because these are very effective to lose weight, require very little time and are very intense. However, low-impact exercises also do the trick when it comes to including some form of movement. Those yoga poses, stretching your body, practicing pilates or simply meditating in a specific position can also free your joints and keep you in shape. So, never underestimate the power of low-impact exercises. You don’t always need to jump on a treadmill to get fit.
Take advantage of simple, portable equipment at home
That’s right! If your budget or time to go to the gym is limited, you don’t have to stay sitting at home. You can make good use of your own body to do bodyweight exercises. Doing some push-ups or simple sit ups along your bed edge can strengthen those muscles. You can also use portable equipment as if you were at the gym. I personally love using resistance bands. They are very versatile, you can take them with you anywhere, even when you go on vacation!
I regularly use resistance bands to enhance my squats and other lower body exercises. I just love how much tension these bands put on my muscles while I’m performing those exercises! My favorite Alta Fitness lower body resistance bands are anti-slip and roll. They come in 3 levels, from light to heavy. Below, I left you the ones I’m using. You’ll get a 20% discount on your purchase here.
For upper body exercises, I love using my Alta Fitness resistance bands set. It’s really effective because they come in different levels of resistance, just like the free weights. Apart from that, you can increase the level once your body becomes used to the exercise. You should be increasing weights or resistance after a while, so your muscles tone better once they adapt. Below you can get the resistance bands I’m using at a 20% discount price.
Park your car farther
There is no secret that parking your car more often will make you walk! So, why not take advantage of it sometimes? Also, if you live right around the block from the store, you don’t need to take your car out to go run a quick errand. This may seem like a no brainer, but oftentimes we take things like these for granted.
Go for walks around your neighborhood
If you live in a safe place, going for walks normally can help boost your mood, get you energized and even improve productivity. Studies show that those who go for a morning stroll are more productive, less stressed and are able to achieve more. Because of this, you want to start moving around more around your neighborhood.
Running your errands is also one of those easy ways to add more movement
We are keeping things simple by taking advantage of errands too. Believe it or not, you can gain a lot by just moving around every time you need to go get something. What works for me is organizing my errands, my schedule and time so that I can maximize my movement by getting things done. Actually, you don’t need to track your steps. It’s all about being out there moving.
Pick up your dancing shoes
Dancing is another easy and effective way to add more movement in your life. And, the good thing is that you don’t have to be a professional dancer, but you can move to the beats of that favorite music. Also, joining a fitness class or following a dance tutorial online can make a great difference in your movement goals.
Maximize your workouts with targeted movements
Besides practicing regular exercise, it’s important that we do it the right way. Especially if your time is limited, doing workouts that will strengthen your legs, tone your butt, improve your joints will make a great deal in your metabolism. Expand your scope beyond cardio and running. Do more strength training and functional exercises. Remember to switch up your routine occasionally as well.
Read more: Workouts to lose weight and keep the curves
Moving around the house is one of those ways to add more movement
Being at home can also include those easy ways to add more movement. Chilling at home doesn’t always mean just laying on the couch or in bed. Believe it or not, doing simple house chores can make you move more.
Switch between using elevators and regular stairs
You don’t need to use elevators all the time. In fact, going up and down the stairs is an easy way to tell how your cardiovascular health is. If you notice, most people that suffer from shortness of breath struggle when going up and down the stairs. Therefore, make it a practice to use the stairs now and then. It will strengthen your heart and it’s a good, simple exercise.
Eating healthier and being mindful of big meals are easy ways to add more movement
Having a healthy, balanced diet will not only help to control your weight and cravings, but will also help you move better. Well, how is this possible? Simple. When you eat well, you have more energy and your body has a better metabolism. Being healthy will overall make you want to move more. Furthermore, when you eat mindful meals, you don’t have that bloating and belly fat that make you become sluggish.
Including energy in your mornings and motivation are great ways to add more movement
Never take for granted a good way of starting your day! Filling your plate with quality whole foods, fueling with the right supplements plus a dose of motivation can take you a long way. Starting the day with some gratitude and mindfulness can give you that boost to get moving. Did you know that a good cup of coffee full of adaptogens can also boost your energy? I’ve had Krios Coffee Brilliance Blend. This is my top choice, since it boosts your energy without the negative side effects of caffeine. Also, I recommend this coffee because it’s infused with vitamins and adaptogens (natural superfood blends), which enhance your focus and memory. Additionally, its benefits include:
- Stress and anxiety relief
- Immune system boosters
- No jitters no energy crash
This coffee is at 15% discount using code ZOLA
Prioritize rest
In my previous blog, I covered why rest days are a must for fitness. Remember to not put yourself through unnecessary body strain. Being active is important, but so is rest and recovery. Never think that over exercising is essential to get fit and stay healthy. As a matter of fact, there is proof that eating less and moving more is not always the answer to effective, long term weight loss. It’s all about consistency, balance and achieving simple, actionable steps that will turn into habits.
Finally,
There are many easy ways to add more movement in your life. Let’s make this year one with sustainable, consistent habits that lead to a healthier life. How are you going to add more movement this year? Let me know in the comments. Sharing is caring!
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I’ve linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.
